In a significant development for the Indian defense sector, U.S. defense manufacturing giant Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems have announced their collaboration to produce and assemble the C-130J Super Hercules tactical military aircraft in India. This joint venture marks a significant expansion of their existing partnership and is expected to bolster India’s defense and aerospace capabilities while strengthening India-US strategic ties.
The collaboration focuses on manufacturing and assembling the C-130J Super Hercules tactical airlifter, a versatile aircraft known for its capabilities in cargo and troop transport, search and rescue, and humanitarian relief operations. The agreement is a strategic move that not only supports India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative but also lays the foundation for potential future business opportunities. These opportunities include the establishment of additional production and assembly facilities in India, provided Lockheed Martin is successful in securing the medium transport aircraft (MTA) contract.
This partnership is a major milestone for Tata Advanced Systems, according to Sukaran Singh, the company’s CEO and managing director. “Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF’s (Indian Air Force’s) MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems,” he said. The partnership also marks Tata Advanced Systems’ entry into the defense maintenance, repair, and overhaul space in India for large aircraft platforms.
The Indian Air Force is actively seeking to procure up to 80 medium transport aircraft and issued a request for information last year. Lockheed Martin responded to the RFI, highlighting the C-130J Super Hercules’ suitability to meet the IAF’s requirements.
Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems have a history of collaboration through their joint venture, Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures. This joint venture aligns with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, which aims to promote domestic manufacturing and boost the Indian economy.
The collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems represents a significant step towards enhancing India’s defense capabilities and fostering stronger strategic ties between India and the United States. It is anticipated to create new job opportunities and contribute to the growth of India’s aerospace industry.
