Lockheed Martin, Tata Advanced Systems to Collaborate on Expanding C-130J Super Hercules Operations

Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems have announced a new collaboration to expand C-130J Super Hercules operations in India. The partnership includes establishing a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and enhancing manufacturing capabilities, potentially supporting India's Medium Transport Aircraft program, upon government approvals.

Lockheed Martin, the American aviation giant, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have announced an enhanced collaboration to bolster their relationship through the C-130J Super Hercules tactical airlifter, according to a company statement on Tuesday. This new agreement outlines plans for a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the Indian Air Force's (IAF) existing fleet of 12 C-130Js and other global Super Hercules fleets. It also aims to expand C-130J manufacturing and assembly in India for the IAF's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, pending U.S. and Indian government approvals.

The statement further highlighted that Lockheed Martin would continue producing the C-130Js for the U.S. government and other global operators at its Marietta, Georgia facility. However, additional production capacity would be set up in India if the MTA contract is secured. Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of TASL, remarked that the collaboration is a significant milestone for their company, marking their entry into the Indian defense MRO sector for large aircraft and strengthening the existing relationship with Lockheed Martin.

Rod McLean, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin's Air Mobility and Maritime Missions, emphasized the importance of this partnership, citing the C-130J's global prominence and the international supply chain, which includes Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) in Hyderabad. McLean noted that this agreement underscores Lockheed Martin's commitment to a self-reliant India and reflects the confidence in its Indian partnerships. The IAF is seeking up to 80 medium transport aircraft, having issued a request for information last year, to which Lockheed Martin responded with the C-130J-30 Super Hercules. This development marks a pivotal step in enhancing India's defense and aerospace capabilities, strengthening strategic ties between India and the U.S.

(With inputs from agencies.)