The Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company (SAMI) recently signed two agreements with Lockheed Martin and Airbus Helicopters to expand its capabilities in the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of C-130 Hercules aircraft in Saudi Arabia. This move will allow Saudi Arabia to join an exclusive group of only 14 countries that own authorized service centers for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of C-130 Hercules aircraft from Lockheed Martin. The EVP of SAMI Aerospace, Eng. Abdulsalam Alghamdi, expressed that this step will enhance the C-130 Hercules fleet by providing maintenance, repair, engineering services, and modification services according to the highest international quality standards. SAMI Company will also provide support to operators of these aircraft at the regional and international levels.
In addition to the agreement with Lockheed Martin, SAMI also committed to localizing the maintenance and repair of helicopters in partnership with Airbus Helicopters. SAMI’s CEO, Eng. Walid A. Abukhaled, highlighted the company’s goal to foster local capabilities and support the localization of the defense industry sector. This initiative is in line with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to localize over 50% of government spending and develop national talent through partnerships with leading global companies. These agreements were announced during the participation of SAMI in the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 in the United Kingdom from July 22 to 26, 2024.
The agreements signed by SAMI with Lockheed Martin and Airbus Helicopters mark a significant step in enhancing Saudi Arabia’s capabilities in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of military aircraft. By joining an exclusive group of countries with authorized service centers for the C-130 Hercules aircraft, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leading player in the defense and security sector. The commitment to localize maintenance and repair services for helicopters further demonstrates SAMI’s dedication to developing local capabilities and supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Eng. Abdulsalam Alghamdi’s statement regarding the enhancement of the C-130 Hercules fleet through maintenance, repair, and engineering services underscores SAMI’s focus on providing top-notch services in line with international quality standards. By offering support to operators of these aircraft at regional and international levels, SAMI is not only expanding its reach but also ensuring that the aircraft are maintained to the highest standards. This commitment to excellence will contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s military aircraft fleet.
Eng. Walid A. Abukhaled’s emphasis on fostering local capabilities and supporting the localization of the defense industry sector aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. By partnering with global companies like Lockheed Martin and Airbus Helicopters, SAMI is not only expanding its technical capabilities but also investing in the development of national talent. This strategic approach to partnerships will not only benefit SAMI but also contribute to the overall growth and advancement of the defense and security sector in Saudi Arabia.
The participation of SAMI in the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 signifies the company’s commitment to showcasing its capabilities on a global platform. By signing agreements with industry leaders like Lockheed Martin and Airbus Helicopters, SAMI is positioning itself as a key player in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of military aircraft. The partnerships formed during the airshow are a testament to SAMI’s dedication to excellence, quality, and the localization of defense industry capabilities in Saudi Arabia.
