India is preparing to procure up to 80 military transport aircraft, according to recent reports, drawing strong interest from global aerospace majors. US-based Lockheed Martin has offered its C-130J Super Hercules for the requirement, saying the aircraft would significantly strengthen India’s tactical airlift capabilities and improve operational coordination among Quad nations.
Lockheed Martin has said that if it secures the deal, it will establish a mega manufacturing hub in India to produce the C-130J Super Hercules. Senior company officials told PTI that this would be the first global production facility for the aircraft outside the United States. The company has delivered more than 560 aircraft from the C-130J family so far, with the fleet logging over three million flight hours across 23 countries.
The C-130J Super Hercules is currently operated by 28 forces worldwide and is widely used for tactical airlift missions, including troop transport, disaster relief and special operations. Lockheed Martin believes the platform’s proven track record and interoperability make it well suited to India’s expanding defence requirements.
Meanwhile, British aerospace major Rolls-Royce has announced plans to significantly deepen its presence in India, aiming to make the country its third “home market” outside the UK. Rolls-Royce India executive vice president Sashi Mukundan said the company is planning major investments, including developing a next-generation aero engine in India for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. He added that the same engine technology could also support electric and hybrid propulsion systems for future naval applications.
