Lockheed Martin Wins $483.5M Deal for Hellfire Missile Production for European

Defense News ,Europe :-  Lockheed Martin has secured a significant contract from the United States Department of Defense (DoD) for the production of a fresh batch of AGM-114R2 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, marking a substantial investment of approximately USD 483.5 million. The agreement emphasizes the continuous enhancement of these potent weapons and their expanding presence within European defense inventories.

While the precise quantity of missiles ordered has not been disclosed, the official announcement confirms deliveries to the U.S. Army alongside three European nations: the Czech Republic, France, and Poland. These countries intend to integrate the Hellfire missiles into their respective attack helicopter fleets – the AH-1Z Viper for the Czech Republic, the Tiger HAD for France, and the AW149 for Poland. Notably, France will also be capable of equipping its MQ-9 Reaper drones with these missiles.

The Hellfire missile holds a prominent position in contemporary warfare, renowned for its precision targeting and anti-tank capabilities. This new production agreement bolsters the military capacities of the European recipients, particularly in the face of potential regional threats. It further highlights the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and its European allies in defense equipment and technology.

This contract arrives amidst ongoing discussions surrounding European defense autonomy. While certain European nations advocate for the development of a more independent military-industrial complex, the Hellfire deal underscores the sustained importance of transatlantic cooperation in defense procurement.