Hyderabad, Aug 24 (ANI): US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor witnesses advanced aerospace manufacturing during his visit to the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) facility, in Hyderabad on Monday. (@USAmbIndia X/ANI Photo)
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New Delhi, August 24: US ambassador Sergio Gor visited the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) facility in Hyderabad and toured the production line that manufactures empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules.The visit coincides with TLMAL’s participation in a Request for Proposal (RFP) the Ministry of Defence has issued for procurement of 60 Medium Transport Aircraft valued at Rs 1 lakh crore -- a link the company itself highlighted in an official statement.It stated that the proven partnership between Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin has grown stronger and enters a “new phase as the team works to fulfill the recently released Medium Transport Aircraft requirement.” Indian Air Force, however, operates a fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules.Ambassador Sergio Gor’s visit highlights the commitment to industrial development and reinforces the deepening strategic partnership and shared commitment to aerospace and defence industrial cooperation in India, as per the company.“The decades-long economic partnership between the United States and India continues to grow stronger through innovation, shared security interests, and economic cooperation,” said Sergio Gor.“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 defense 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.”During the visit, the ambassador toured the production line that manufactures empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules. The Hyderabad plant is emblematic of the critical role Indian industry plays in supporting the world’s most versatile and proven airlifter.Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, 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. Both sides will bring their existing world class capabilities to support the MoD.”The joint venture reflects an existing, established, and proven ability to produce and scale production to meet MTA competition requirements. According to the statement, the Tata Advanced Systems’ MRO opening is planned for December of this year with aircraft arrival slated for spring 2027.Published on August 24, 2026
