Lockheed Martin announced in a press unencumber that Tata Stepped forward Systems and Lockheed Martin maintain begun building on a brand unique protection Upkeep, Restore and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, aimed at servicing the C-130J Wide Hercules airplane operated by the Indian Air Force and potentially assorted global operators. The capacity is expected to be operational by early 2027.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together officials from the Indian Air Force, authorities representatives, and senior executives from both companies. The project marks a first-rate step forward in India’s aerospace capabilities and is piece of a broader push to raise indigenous protection infrastructure below the country’s “Make in India” initiative.
“Nowadays’s groundbreaking reflects how far our collaboration with Tata Stepped forward Systems and India has come, and where we’re headed together,” stated Frank St. John, Chief Working Officer of Lockheed Martin. “This unique C-130 MRO facility brings world-class sustainment capacity into India, improves readiness for the Indian Air Force, and creates alternatives that will make stronger regional and global C-130 operators.”
Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of Tata Stepped forward Systems, stated the power symbolizes India’s rising position in shaping its protection future. “The MRO project strengthens our aerospace ecosystem, increasing a foundation for innovation, capacity style, and global competitiveness,” he stated.
The train of the art work MRO center will provide depot-level and heavy upkeep, ingredient restore, avionics upgrades, structural restoration, and training for Indian engineers and maintainers. This also can furthermore launch unique avenues for Indian suppliers fascinated with the global C-130 offer chain.
The press unencumber states that the unique facility builds on Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Miniature’s (TLMAL) existing position in manufacturing C-130 empennages. Final week, TLMAL infamous the shipping of its 250th C-130J tail, highlighting persevered collaboration between India and the U.S.
“The C-130J Wide Hercules is a confirmed workhorse for India’s military and humanitarian missions,” stated Rod McLean, vp and total manager, Lockheed Martin Air Mobility and Maritime Missions. “This MRO facility will be definite world-class sustainment capacity within India while supporting the C-130J mercurial globally.”
Lockheed Martin has maintained a presence in India for over 30 years and continues to amplify its position in constructing the country’s protection and aerospace capabilities, aligning with India’s strategic targets.
The capacity is expected to be executed by the tip of 2026, with its first airplane scheduled for upkeep in early 2027.
