Martin Aircraft Company has signed a formal alliance agreement with Avwatch Inc., to develop the U.S. first responder market for Martin Jetpacks.

The agreement was signed Monday, the New Zealand-based Martin said in a statement.

Avwatch is a U.S. business that harnesses innovative technologies to support, enhance and train government agencies of all levels in homeland security and disaster recovery.

The two companies will work together to develop specific capabilities for the North American first responder and homeland security sectors, which are key markets for the Martin Jetpack, the company said.

The agreement will also seek research and development funding for future enhancements to the jetpack to meet requirements of U.S. first responders.

Avwatch also intends to purchase a number of manned and unmanned jetpacks, Martin said.

Martin also plans to establish a sales and marketing presence out of Avwatch's Massachusetts headquarters.