Lockheed Martin has become a joint venture partner in UAE-based Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Center (AMMROC) between Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT) and Sikorsky.

The acquired stake makes Lockheed Martin an equal shareholder to the United Technologies subsidiary Sikorsky, with ADAT being the principal investor. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. The total investment in the venture is approximately $800 million.

The Fort Worth-based manufacturer will contribute capabilities for fixed-wing aircraft.

AMMROC was founded in 2010 to support all fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft operated by the United Arab Emirates armed forces, but also to contract MRO custom from other international military operators. This market would eventually encompass the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, says David Adler, Sikorsky's president.

The company is operating out of ADAT's facilities until its own complex at Al Ain International airport in Abu Dhabi is ready. It plans to build up its workforce to approximately 4,000 employees.

Source: MRO News