Lockheed Martin CEO Meets Modi to Bolster Defense and Industrial Ties

Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet and Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed strengthening U.S.-India defense and industrial relationships. The meeting, also attended by NSA Ajit Doval, highlighted collaborations under the 'Make in India' initiative. Significant exports and joint ventures with Tata were noted.

US aerospace giant Lockheed Martin's CEO, Jim Taiclet, met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss fortifying defense and industrial ties between the two countries. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also participated in the Thursday meeting.

Lockheed Martin India posted on X, acknowledging the meeting by stating, '@LockheedMartin CEO Jim Taiclet joined Hon'ble @narendramodi. As a trusted partner for over three decades, we recognize the promising talent and capabilities of the local industry and remain committed to strengthening the defense and industrial ties between our two nations.' Lockheed Martin, based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a leading global security and aerospace firm focused on advanced technology systems, products, and services.

Earlier this year, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan held talks with a Lockheed Martin delegation about potential collaborations with the Indian Defense Industry aligned with the 'Make in India' initiative. The Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters noted on X, 'General Anil Chauhan, #CDS interacted with a delegation of #LockheedMartin Pvt Ltd led by Mr Raymond P Piselli, Vice President International Business. Collaboration with Indian Defence Industry for products & technologies in line with #MakeInIndia initiatives discussed.'

In June of last year, Lockheed Martin's Vice-President for India, William Blair, reported that the company had exported approximately USD 650 million worth of defense products from India to the US. Blair also noted the existence of two long-standing joint ventures with TATA in India, alongside substantial supply chain engagements with hundreds of local suppliers.

(With inputs from agencies.)