Prince Mohammed visits Lockheed Martin in Silicon Valley

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was briefed on the latest technological advancements in aviation, air defense, missile technology and satellite communications at Lockheed Martin, the aerospace and defense company’s headquarters in Silicon Valley.

Prince Mohammed met with Marillyn Hewson, Lockheed Martin’s Chairperson and CEO, and discussed the company’s plans to localize defense industries and transfer the technology to the Kingdom.

He viewed the THAAD high-tech air defense system, which Saudi Arabia is looking to purchase and localize its production.

The presentation included the company’s plans to establish a research and development center in cooperation with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).

The Crown Prince also looked into satellites currently under construction for the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and ArabSat. The satellites are considered to be the first of their kind, and the most efficient and accurate.

The visit included meeting with the Saudi engineers who are working alongside Lockheed Martin’s engineers to transfer and localize these technologies in order to establish the satellite industry in the Kingdom, promote economic opportunities and create jobs.

The first Saudi satellite is set to provide high-capacity and advanced Ka-Band capabilities. It will also provide military, security and civil sectors with a secure satellite network for visual, telephone and internet communications.

The satellite’s frequency will extend to the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The satellites are expected to be delivered by the end of this year.

At the end of his visit, the Prince signed the final piece that will be placed on the Saudi satellite before its launch, writing “above the clouds.”

During Prince Mohammed bin Salman tour in @LockheedMartin California complex, HRH signed on the last piece that will be installed on one of two #Saudi satellites being built at LM as part of a joint cooperation with @KACST pic.twitter.com/5FeyQv4aQW

— محمد بن خالد (@MbKS15) April 6, 2018