Lockheed Martin said in a statement that "a critical component of the future strategy will be leadership of Lockheed Martin’s efforts related to the AIR 6500 program, which will provide an even greater level of capability and integration across the Australian Defence Force".

"This transformational capability will require a fifth-generation, multi-domain technical solution. It will also require a strong sovereign team with robust, trusted partnerships across multiple military services, large companies, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs)," the release added.

“We are committed to putting the best people in front of this programme and Mr Froelich’s extensive experience spanning advanced multi-domain weapons systems, delivery of complex command and control programs, and proven ability to create a united vision for industry and Defence primes, uniquely qualifies him for this role,” said Joe North, chief executive of Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand.

“We plan to adopt the successful approach taken for the Future Submarine Program, which provides a trusted Defence partnership, a strong sovereign industry capability, and ready access to US capabilities and experience.”

Previously to this role, Froelich led Lockheed Martin's missile defense solutions, which included the Missile Defence Agency's Command and Control Battle Management and Communications (C2MBC) program.

This program leadership experience involved managing prime contractors to deliver one of the most advanced multi-domain command and control capabilities available.

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C2BMC is operational at 33 locations in 17 different time zones.

Froelich's career has spanned 35 years of service with the military as a Surface Naval Officer as well as industry.