Lockheed Martin, the US-based global technology leader, entered into an international master research agreement with King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Monday. Both entities will focus on research and development initiatives to support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Prof. Dr. Abdulrahman Al Youbi, president of King Abdulaziz University, and Dr. Lawrence Schuette, director of Global Science & Technology, Lockheed Martin Corporation, signed the agreement during a virtual ceremony with the participation of Joseph Rank, chief executive of Lockheed Martin Saudi Arabia, Prof. Yusuf Alturki, vice president for graduate studies and scientific research at KAU, and other officials. The agreement provides a framework to support future projects, with an immediate focus on technology development in areas such as industrial engineering, additive manufacturing, and air vehicle research. "King Abdulaziz University is committed to advancing innovation in engineering through technology-focused projects that support Saudi Vision 2030," said Dr. Al Youbi in comments during the ceremony. "Cooperating with leading technology companies such as Lockheed Martin will enable us to share expertise in the field of applied research and will provide us with unique opportunities to support the development of Saudi industrial capabilities." "King Abdulaziz University is a leading university in the region, with internationally recognized faculty and advanced research capabilities," added Dr. Schuette. "Lockheed Martin is extremely proud to support the Kingdom's research and development efforts with KAU, and we look forward to expanding our engagement with Saudi scientists and engineers to advance the strategic priorities of the country." With 25 different research centers, King Abdulaziz University, based in Jeddah, is Saudi Arabia's premier educational institution focusing on international outreach and collaboration in research and innovation. As a leading security and aerospace company and supplier of advanced technologies, Lockheed Martin works with leading universities worldwide to sponsor and perform collaborative research for government customers. Lockheed Martin has been a committed partner to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since 1965. Today, the company's presence has moved beyond defense systems to provide various products and services, technical support, and educational expertise to strengthen the Kingdom's defense industry. — SG
