BAE Systems renames Saudi office

In a file photo taken on October 1, 2009 a BAE Systems plant is pictured in Warton near Preston, north-west England. (AFP)

LONDON: BAE Systems has renamed its US office in Saudi Arabia as it targets increased industrial partnerships in the Kingdom.
The US office of BAE Systems, formerly known as Land Services Arabia, is now called BAE Systems Saudi America.
According to a statement from BAE Systems, the new name “reflects the all-encompassing nature of the organization for providing in-country services and interfacing with Saudi customers and partners, and supports key products developed by BAE Systems in the United States”.
These include combat vehicles, artillery systems, protection systems, electronic warfare capabilities, precision guidance, and aircraft survivability systems.
The renaming formally took place during a recent reception hosted by the US Embassy in Riyadh.
John Godfrey, acting deputy chief of mission, said at the event: “President Trump’s ground-breaking visit to Saudi Arabia seven months ago laid the groundwork for the cooperation we see today and for stronger US-Saudi partnerships in the years to come. BAE Systems Saudi America has plans underway for significant industrial partnerships here in Saudi Arabia.”
BAE Systems this year delivered the final four aircraft of the 72 planes ordered under its Salam Typhoon program in the Kingdom.
It also has a Typhoon support program, and agreed an additional 20,000 flying hours under a contract amendment signed in April.