U.S. envoy Sergio Gor visits Tata-Lockheed Martin manufacturing hub as India hunts for 80 transport aircraft
During the visit, Ambassador Gor toured the production line that manufactures empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules
U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor toured the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited facility in Hyderabad on August 24, 2026, as India seeks to secure 80 transport aircraft. Gor's visit highlighted the expanding strategic partnership between the United States and India in aerospace and defense manufacturing. During his tour, Gor witnessed the production line manufacturing empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
The Hyderabad facility exemplifies the integration of Indian industry into the global aerospace supply chain and the long-standing partnership between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Lockheed Martin. Gor emphasized that such collaborations generate high-skilled jobs, bolster resilient supply chains, and contribute to a secure Indo-Pacific region.
As TASL and Lockheed Martin aim to meet India's recently announced Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) requirement, the joint venture boasts experience in producing and scaling aerospace manufacturing. TASL's CEO and Managing Director, Sukaran Singh, reported that the partnership has now extended beyond aerostructures, encompassing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, with the upgraded facility set to open in December 2026.
The first C-130J aircraft deliveries are anticipated to commence in spring 2027. India's contribution to producing empennages underscores the nation's growing aerospace manufacturing prowess, aligning with the government's Make in India initiative.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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