New Delhi | The production in India of critical structures for the C-130J military transport aircraft is a strong example of the growing defence cooperation between the US and India and such efforts are set to advance the shared vision for a free and secure Indo-Pacific, US Ambassador Sergio Gor said on Monday.

The envoy made the remarks after visiting the Tata-Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Ltd's manufacturing facility in Hyderabad.

Established in 2010, the joint venture focuses on complementing India's 'Make in India' objectives and has the distinction of being the single global source of C-130J empennage assemblies included on all new Super Hercules aircraft produced in the US.

The Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin joint venture is now eyeing to address India's requirement of around 80 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) under a multi-billion dollar procurement programme.

Lockheed Martin's C-130J, Embraer Defence and Security's C-390 Millennium and Airbus Defence and Space's A-400M aircraft have emerged as top contenders for the mega contract.

The IAF is currently operating 12 C-130J aircraft.

During the visit, Ambassador Gor toured the production line that manufactures empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules.

"The decades-long economic partnership between the United States and India continues to grow stronger through innovation, shared security interests and economic cooperation," Gor said.

"The production in India of critical structures for the C-130J, a platform operated by both our nations, is a strong example of the growing industrial and defence cooperation between the United States and India. Partnerships like these support high-skilled jobs, strengthen resilient supply chains, and advance our shared vision for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific," he said.

Gor's reference to the Indo-Pacific comes amid rising global concerns over China's increasing military muscle-flexing in the region.

Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said: "Tata Advanced Systems' partnership with Lockheed Martin has proven over time to supply world-class aerostructures for their key programmes including the C-130J."

"This partnership has now extended to MRO, which will be operational soon. Additionally, both parties are expanding cooperation on full platforms for Make in India, should we get the opportunity." The Tata Advanced Systems' MRO opening is planned for December this year with aircraft arrival slated for Spring 2027.

Trish Pagan, vice president of Air Mobility and Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin, said: "Through our collaboration with Indian industry, we have established world-class aerospace manufacturing capabilities that directly support the global network of C-130J operators."

"We remain committed to supporting India's aerospace vision and exploring opportunities to further expand advanced manufacturing, technology, and production capabilities in-country while delivering proven solutions worldwide. While others look to replicate, we demonstrate a proven capability and decades of results," she said.

Certified across 20 missions, the C-130J Super Hercules serves militaries around the globe and has become a key symbol of tactical airlift operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and special mission operations.

India's contribution to the program through the production of C-130J empennages reflects an existing integration of Indian industry into the global aerospace supply chain and the enduring strength of the US-India defence partnership, Lockheed said.

"We have invested significantly in our joint venture partnership for 15-plus years, and this Medium Transport Aircraft opportunity extends and strengthens an already established and proven relationship and capability," said Pagan. "We're excited for what's next."

In a statement, Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) said the proven partnership between Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin is stronger than ever and it enters a new phase as the team works to fulfil the recently released Medium Transport Aircraft requirement.

The TLMAL said the Hyderabad plant is emblematic of the "critical role" Indian industry plays in supporting the "world's most versatile and proven airlifter".

The joint venture reflects an existing, established, and proven ability to produce and scale production to meet MTA competition requirements, it said.

The IAF is actively seeking to acquire up to 80 Medium Transport Aircraft and issued a request for information (RFI) or initial tender in 2023.