The proposed collaboration between LOTN and KONGSBERG is intended to provide new and legacy F-16 operators with maintenance and logistics services operating from a world-class facility with extensive technical expertise on Lockheed Martin F-16 aircraft.
“This initiative is a direct result of LOTN’s participation in the life cycle support of the Slovakian Air Force’s new generation F-16 Block 70 fleet,” said Juraj Laus, Chairman and CEO of LOTN. “KONGSBERG is a very highly regarded player in this industry; teaming with them will allow us to expand our offering of services and capabilities which will benefit the Slovak Air Force and other NATO and Allied operators as well,” he added.
“The Norwegian Air Force’s transition from the F-16 to the F-35 has allowed KAMS the ability to apply our 40 years of F-16 MRO experience to opportunities outside of Norway” said André Jægtvik, President of Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services.
“Our designation as a Lockheed Martin approved Falcon Service Center for F-16s up to Block 52 combined with LOTN’s experienced labor force, modern infrastructure and Block 70 capability will provide a legitimate and strategically located option for F-16 support and services,” added Jægtvik.
About the companies
Letecké opravovne Trenčín, a.s. (LOTN) is a commercial aviation services enterprise with a 75-year history that is 100% owned by the Slovakian Ministry of Defence. Located in Trencin, Slovakia, LOTN owns and operates more than 150,000 sf of hangar, shop and office facilities that includes a 2,000 m runway with a certified control tower. In addition to providing support for the Slovak Air Force F-16 Block 70, the company has extensive experience with the Aero L-39 military jet trainer, LET 410 twin turbo-prop passenger aircraft, and Mi-17 series helicopters.
Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services performs maintenance on aircraft and helicopters and is an important contributor to the Air Force's ability to patrol and protect Norwegian airspace. The company is a Lockheed Martin approved F-16 Falcon Service Center and provides comprehensive maintenance and logistics support for the Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35A fleet. The company is owned 50.1% by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and 49.9% by Finland’s Patria.
