Poland Drives Hard Bargain for Four Dozen Falcons

The Polish Minister of Economy Labor and Social Policy, and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company earlier this month signed a Master Offset Agreement valued at $6.023 billion as part of Poland's procurement of 48 F-16 C/D Block 52 aircraft. That figures out to roughly $125 million per aircraft.

The agreement details a series of specific offset projects designed to bring high technology, new jobs and growth to the Polish economy. The agreement complies with Polish law and allows for the immediate implementation of all agreements contained in the Letter of Offer and Acceptance between Poland and the United States, initialled in March 2003.

"I am delighted with the fact that after much difficult negotiations, the two sides have come to an agreement," said Deputy Minister of Economy Jacek Piechota. "It was in the interest of Lockheed Martin to conclude this agreement allowing the sale of the F-16s to proceed, and it is in our interest to take advantage of the unique opportunities that a strategic economic relationship with the United States provides us. This agreement is a success for Poland, and the long term benefits to the Polish economy will allow us to play a full role in the new competitive environment of the European Union."

Philip Georgariou, Lockheed Martin's Regional Director for Industrial Participation, noted that the agreement focuses on strategic areas such as technology transfer and information technology, as well as providing projects in key economic sectors. "Together with our industry team members, we intend to work closely with the Polish government to select the best possible projects over the lifetime of the contract, bringing benefits to the Polish economy well beyond the 10-year life of the offset contract," he noted. "The agreement is intended to enhance Poland competitively in the global economy, create jobs and enhance local labor market skills."

As requested by the Polish government, the projects in the agreement focus on high-technology and long-term job creation. The agreement also provides Poland with the opportunity to deepen its economic relationship with the United States, the strongest and most technologically advanced country in the world. As a whole, the entire package of offset projects will bring significant economic benefits in excess of $9 billion to Poland far beyond the ten-year lifespan of the offset program.

FMI: www.lockheedmartin.com; www.lmaeronautics.com