Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded Lockheed Martin’s dedication to the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative, highlighting the company’s contributions to India’s defense capabilities. This includes advanced technologies in aerospace, naval systems, missile defense, and strategic capabilities.
Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet met with PM Modi, reinforcing their commitment to strengthening US-India defense ties. The joint venture with Tata Advanced Systems in Hyderabad, which produces C-130J empennages, is a testament to this collaboration. The C-130J aircraft are crucial to the Indian Air Force.
The Pentagon has recognized the deepening partnership between the US and India, with initiatives like INDUS-X and a roadmap for defense industrial cooperation. India’s government is also boosting domestic defense production, with over 12,300 items indigenized and a ban on importing 346 types of military hardware.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Lockheed Martin’s efforts in supporting India’s defense sector through its “Make in India, Make for the World” vision. This was highlighted during a meeting with Lockheed Martin’s CEO, Jim Taiclet. The Prime Minister’s Office shared the news on social media, acknowledging Lockheed Martin as a significant partner in India-US aerospace and defense cooperation.
Lockheed Martin has played a pivotal role in enhancing India’s military capabilities by providing advanced defense technologies across various sectors such as aerospace, naval systems, missile defense, and strategic capabilities. One notable collaboration is their joint venture with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in Hyderabad, where they manufacture C-130J empennages. This partnership has successfully produced and delivered over 200 empennages, increasingly using locally sourced components.
The C-130J transport aircraft, integral to the Indian Air Force (IAF), underline the strong industrial ties between Lockheed Martin and India. This relationship was further cemented by the recent launch of INDUS-X and the completion of a roadmap for US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation, aimed at enhancing bilateral defense cooperation and innovation.
The Pentagon also recognizes the deepening ties, with officials from both countries actively engaging to strengthen military cooperation. In line with this, India’s defense ministry has announced a ban on importing 346 types of military hardware, with plans to procure these items from state-run domestic manufacturers. Over the past three years, more than 12,300 items have been indigenized to bolster India’s defense industry.
Lockheed Martin’s commitment to India’s defense sector aligns with the broader goals of self-reliance and technological advancement, marking a significant step in the ongoing partnership between the two nations.
Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace, defense, and security company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. It was formed in 1995 through the merger of Lockheed Corporation and Martin Marietta. The company is one of the world’s largest defense contractors and is known for its advanced technology systems, products, and services.
Lockheed Martin’s portfolio includes aircraft, missiles, space systems, and cybersecurity solutions. Notable products include the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet, the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, and the THAAD missile defense system. The company works closely with governments and commercial clients around the world to enhance security and advance technological innovation.
