Lockheed Martin and Aero Vodochody team up to develop reconnaissance pods
On 28 May 2025, at the IDET international defence and security technology trade fair in Brno, Aero Vodochody Aerospace signed an industrial co-operation project agreement with Lockheed Martin.
The…
May 30, 2025
On 28 May 2025, at the IDET international defence and security technology trade fair in Brno, Aero Vodochody Aerospace signed an industrial co-operation project agreement with Lockheed Martin.
The agreement relates to the joint development and production of a next-generation Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod made from advanced composite materials.
The signing of the agreement is linked to Prague’s purchase of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and is said to build on previous discussions with Lockheed Martin and technology partner Collins Aerospace and confirms Aero’s readiness for technical collaboration on global defence programmes.
It is presumed that the new Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod would equip Czech F-35As, and would then be integrated on F-35s operated by other air forces, if there is any demand.
Viktor Sotona, the President and Chairman of the Board of Aero, said that the new collaborative project would develop and produce a next-generation Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod from advanced composite materials.
“This agreement confirms that the Czech aerospace industry has the know-how and capabilities to participate in the development of cutting-edge technologies for the most advanced aircraft of today,” says Sotona.
“The Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod project confirms Aero’s capabilities not only in terms of producing unique technologies in the field of advanced composite structures, but also in terms of significant international cooperation,” he added. “We are proud to be part of this cutting-edge global project!”
