Lockheed Martin Canada invests $10M in Canadian-developed AI for CC-130J Hercules sustainment

According to Lockheed Martin's announcement, carried by True North Strategic Review, the investment supports development of iMAPLE, an AI competency management platform being developed through a joint initiative between Lockheed Martin Canada, the RCAF and Contextere[2].ENGtechnica reports that the deal was announced at the Canadian Aerospace Summit in Ottawa[3], and that iMAPLE is based on Contextere's MADISON platform[3].Aero-Mag reports that iMAPLE works by matching personnel competencies to maintenance tasks[4] to support decisions that could improve aircraft availability and fleet readiness. The outlet adds that the technology is designed for applications to maintain complex equipment across land, air and sea.[4]According to BetaKit, the contract is part of Lockheed's obligations under Canada's Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) policy[1]. BetaKit also notes that Lockheed made a $3.6-million CAD investment into Ottawa-based AI solutions provider Lemay.ai for similar reasons earlier this year.[1]Secretary of State for Defence Procurement Stephen Fuhr said the partnership is "helping grow a sovereign AI ecosystem with export potential"[2], according to the release.Contextere CEO Gabriel Batstone told Aero-Mag that "Canada has the talent and technology to solve demanding defence challenges."[4]Defence Industry Europe reports that Lockheed Martin said Canada's purchase and support of 17 CC-130J aircraft have delivered more than C$4.7 billion in economic benefits under the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy.[5]