As part of FIDAE 2026, Lockheed Martin and Chile’s National Aeronautics Company (ENAER) signed a contract for the maintenance of the Chilean Air Force’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, consolidating a new stage of industrial cooperation. The agreement was signed on April 9 during the event in Santiago, Chile, and establishes a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the sustainment capabilities of the national fleet, ensuring local technical support and operational continuity.
The signing of the contract took place in the context of the International Air and Space Fair (FIDAE) 2026, which has been held at Pudahuel Air Base since April 7 and brings together official delegations, industry companies, and institutional representatives from various countries. The event, considered one of the most relevant gatherings for the aeronautical, space, and defense industries in Latin America, runs until April 12 and serves as a platform for the announcement of new agreements and projects related to air and technological capabilities.
During this edition, the Chilean Air Force also evaluated other modernization alternatives for its transport aviation, among them the presentation of the Airbus A400M. The European company showcased the model’s tactical and strategic characteristics, highlighting its multi-mission capability and performance in heavy airlift operations. Airbus also presented progress in the development of a roll-in/roll-out firefighting kit designed to operate with retardant liquids and increase the aircraft’s operational flexibility.
The presence of platforms such as the A400M complemented the announcement made by Lockheed Martin and ENAER, showing the interest of the international industry in offering sustainment solutions, air mobility, and special capabilities for Chile. Exhibitors emphasized that FIDAE continues to be a key meeting point for promoting cooperation agreements and addressing the renewal and maintenance plans of the region’s armed forces. In this setting, the contract for the Black Hawks is part of a broader dynamic aimed at strengthening Chile’s military aerospace sector.
FIDAE 2026 maintains its position as one of the main spaces for interaction between companies and state agencies linked to defense and aviation, enabling the dissemination of projects, the exploration of new technologies, and the generation of opportunities for industrial integration. The participation of Lockheed Martin, ENAER, and Airbus reflected the variety of initiatives presented during the event and the interest in consolidating national capabilities through agreements on maintenance, systems development, and the evaluation of new air platforms.
Cover image by Zona Militar.
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