Skunk Works and NLR join forces to strengthen defence priorities

Royal NLR and the renowned American company Skunk Works famous for its work on the SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance plane, as well as the F-117 Nighthawk stealth aircraft, join forces on strategic initiatives to strengthen the defence priorities of the Netherlands and its allies.

Washington, October 17, 2024 — Royal NLR – Netherlands Aerospace Centre has announced an exciting collaboration with Skunk Works®, the renowned advanced development organization within Lockheed Martin Corporation. NLR and Skunk Works have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to guide cooperation in key areas such as European strategic autonomy, military operational analysis, technology roadmaps, and increased connectivity to the Dutch industrial base. This project aims to strengthen the defence priorities of the Netherlands and its allies.

Royal NLR has been an ambitious, knowledge-based organization for more than a century, with a deep-seated desire to keep innovating. As a key partner to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, NLR plays a pivotal role in developing innovative solutions for the Dutch military.

Skunk Works has an 80-year history of developing ground-breaking aerospace systems like the SR-71 Blackbird and the F-117 Nighthawk and continues to deliver cutting-edge solutions for its customers today. Skunk Works’ visionary focus on innovation aligns with NLR’s mission of more sustainable, safer, more efficient, and more effective aerospace.

“Lockheed Martin has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Dutch government and industry,” said Atherton Carty, vice president of business development at Skunk Works. “This MOU with NLR marks an important expansion of that relationship, enabling us to explore new ways our combined expertise in technology, research, and analysis can help address pressing challenges in aerospace and defence in a rapidly changing global security landscape.”

Michel Peters, chief executive officer of Royal NLR said, “We are pleased to announce this new collaboration with Skunk Works, well known for the development of advanced aircraft and spacecraft. As global geopolitical unrest intensifies, we recognize the importance of working with allied organizations to drive innovation and ensure our national safety and security, as well as that of our allies. This MOU underlines our commitment to collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of advanced defence capabilities.”