Lockheed Martin has put forward a compelling offer to establish a C-130J Super Hercules production facility in India, a proposal that has captured significant attention in New Delhi’s defense corridors. This marks a pioneering move, representing the first time the US aerospace giant has agreed to set up a complete production line for the C-130J outside its own territory. The announcement was made on December 9th, shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his visit to India, a trip that highlighted deepening defense ties between the two nations.
The American company has designated India as the ideal host for its first overseas production hub. This strategic consideration comes at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is initiating the acquisition process for 80 tactical lift transport aircraft. Lockheed Martin believes the C-130J aligns perfectly with the IAF’s requirements, citing its robust performance and dependability in over 20 countries, including India’s existing fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
According to senior company officials, the IAF’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program is a “window of opportunity” for Lockheed Martin to enhance its presence and operational base within India. This commitment to co-production abroad signifies a substantial strategic investment in the Indian defense sector. To pursue the MTA contract, Lockheed Martin has partnered with Tata Advanced Systems. The IAF had issued a Request for Information in 2022, seeking potential replacements for its aging Soviet-era An-32 and Il-76 aircraft. The projected acquisition of around 80 military transport aircraft is anticipated to be formally approved in the coming weeks. Other global manufacturers, including Embraer with its KC-390 Millennium and Airbus with the A400M, are also competing for this significant deal. The C-130J Super Hercules is a globally renowned military transport platform, currently in service with 28 operators across 23 nations.