In a major boost for Indias defense sector, US aerospace company LocIn a major boost for Indias defense sector, US aerospace company Lockheed Martin has submitted a massive $10.5 billion proposal to supply 60 military transport planes to the Indian Air Force. Under this ambitious plan, Lockheed intends to expand its strong partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited to manufacture these advanced military aircraft locally.kheed Martin has submitted a massive $10.5 billion proposal to supply 60 military transport planes to the Indian Air Force. Under this ambitious plan, Lockheed intends to expand its strong partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited to manufacture these advanced military aircraft locally.
The Indian Air Force opened this multi billion dollar tender to replace its aging Soviet era An32 transport fleet. The Air Force requires modern aircraft capable of carrying 18 to 30 tonnes of load and operating from rough, highaltitude border airfields. To meet this need, Lockheed Martin is offering its world famous C130J30 Super Hercules aircraft.
Under the proposed arrangement, 12 aircraft will be delivered directly from the US in flyaway condition, while the remaining 48 planes will be built in India. Lockheed Martin already operates a joint venture with Tata in Hyderabad that makes key tail assemblies for global C130J planes. Winning this deal will transform that unit into a full manufacturing facility.
Several top Indian firms including Mahindra, Adani, HAL, and Reliance Defence are in the race with foreign partners like Embraer. However, Lockheeds existing setup with Tata gives it a strong edge to boost local manufacturing and military strength.
