Lockheed Martin и Университет Нортумбрии подписали соглашение о стратегическом сотрудничестве в области космических исследований

Lockheed Martin Space UK strengthens commitment to North East Lockheed Martin Space UK has reinforced its commitment to the North East following the signing of a Master Research Agreement with Northumbria University. The agreement creates a framework for long-term collaboration on space research and innovation, building on the manufacturer’s previously announced £15m investment in the North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST),. The Master Research Agreement – the latest milestone in a growing strategic partnership between the two organisations – is designed to create a flexible structure through which Lockheed Martin Space UK and Northumbria University will collaborate on an evolving portfolio of research projects, while ensuring appropriate intellectual property protections. Through its £15m investment, Lockheed Martin is helping to establish NESST as a centre for space innovation, skills development and technology advancement in the North East. It includes a £7.5m research and development programme which forms a key part of the commitment, supporting research that will accelerate innovation, strengthen regional capabilities, while helping to develop the next generation of space talent. NESST is expected to open later this year and achieve full operating capability in early 2027. Robert Lightfoot, President of Lockheed Martin Space, said: “This agreement is another example of Lockheed Martin delivering on its long-term commitment to the North East and to the future of the UK’s space sector. By combining Northumbria University’s outstanding research expertise with Lockheed Martin’s global experience and technology leadership, we can accelerate innovation in critical space capabilities while creating opportunities for skills development, collaboration and economic growth. “From our investment in NESST and collaborative research programmes to our Space Camp initiative, which has inspired young people across the region for the past four years to pursue technical paths, we are proud to be helping establish the North East as a centre of excellence for space research, technology and talent development.” A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed earlier this year between North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and Lockheed Martin UK to align investment, skills development and supply chain growth, bringing a more coordinated public-private approach to regional economic development across the region. Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Northumbria University, said: “This agreement represents a significant step forward in our partnership with Lockheed Martin and reflects Northumbria’s growing reputation as a leading university for research, innovation and enterprise. “Through NESST and our wider collaboration, we are creating opportunities for researchers, students and industry to work together on technologies that will help shape the future of space exploration, communications and resilience.” Like this story? For more deals news you can visit our dedicated page for the latest news and analysishere.