Lockheed Martin and the Hungarian Government signed a protocol at the end of January, "paving the way for expanded, long-term, industrial co-operation". The US company has presented a preliminary plan offering 100% offset in exchange for Lockheed Martin products. The agreement comes in the middle of active marketing of the F-16 for Hungary's air-force modernisation. The aircraft is in competition with the McDonnell Douglas F-18, the Saab JAS39 Gripen and the Dassault Mirage 2000. The Hungarian air force intends to replace its Soviet-era combat aircraft with a Western fighter type, in part to support its intention to become a member of NATO.
Source: Flight International
