Lockheed Martin, AEC Sniper ATP center opens in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin and Advanced Electronic Company's Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod support center begins operations in Saudi Arabia.

The opening of the Sniper ATP center marks the first time a support center of its kind has operated outside of the United States. The center will provide sustainment support for Sniper ATPs, devices used to improve air-to-air and air-to-ground accuracy for military aircraft in combat.

Lockheed Martin says the center will help boost employment opportunities in the Kingdom, as well as enhance its fleet's operational readiness.

"We are proud to partner with AEC to enhance in-Kingdom technical capabilities through work performed at this center," Lockheed Martin Saudi Arabia CEO Alan Chinoda said in a statement. "As the sustainment hub for targeting systems in the Kingdom, the Sniper ATP Expanded Repair Capability will also help ensure fleet readiness."

The Sniper ATP center's opening comes as part of the Saudi Arabia Economic Offset Program. The targeting pods are used by the U.S. Air Force and many of its allies. They can be fitted to a variety of aircraft, including the F-16, F-18, B-52, A-10 and others.