US Company Partners with Tata: Super Hercules Military Aircraft to Be Manufactured in India | WPN World People News

US company Lockheed Martin and India's Tata Group have announced a new partnership to manufacture the C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft in India. This collaboration not only strengthens India's defense and aerospace capabilities but also marks an important step in the strategic relationship between India and the US.

The partnership includes the establishment of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities to support both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and global C-130J fleets. Additionally, the Indian Air Force plans to increase production and assembly of the C-130J, expanding India's medium transport aircraft production capabilities, though this requires approval from both the US and Indian governments.

According to foreign media reports, Sukaran Singh, CEO of Tata Advanced Systems, stated that this collaboration is a significant milestone for Tata Advanced Systems, as it marks the company's entry into the MRO field for large defense aircraft. Rod McLean, Vice President of Lockheed Martin, expressed that the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to India's self-reliance and its confidence in Indian partners.

The C-130J Super Hercules has been in service with the Indian Air Force since 2011, demonstrating exceptional operational capabilities in high-altitude regions and adverse weather conditions. This aircraft is deployed in 23 countries around the world for missions including search and rescue, wartime transport, and humanitarian aid.