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Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems’ long-running aerospace partnership reached a new milestone this week as Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited (TLMAL) completed and delivered its 250th empennage assembly for the C-130J Super Hercules.
The achievement underscores 15 years of collaboration between the U.S. and Indian industry in producing one of the world’s most relied-upon military transport aircraft. TLMAL, formed in 2010 as a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), manufactures the full tail structure, comprising the horizontal and vertical stabilisers, at its Hyderabad facility.
Once completed, the assemblies are shipped to Lockheed Martin’s production line in Marietta, Georgia, where they are integrated into C-130J aircraft serving global defence forces.
Rod McLean, vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions business, said the 250-unit milestone reflects the trust placed in Indian manufacturing capabilities. “Our teams in India continue to demonstrate excellence in precision, quality and reliability,” McLean noted, stressing that the components produced in Hyderabad support C-130J fleets operating across 23 nations and performing more than 20 mission types, including humanitarian relief, special operations and disaster response.
Strengthening India’s Aerospace Footprint
The empennage production program has become a cornerstone of Lockheed Martin’s industrial presence in India. Over the years, the partnership has expanded beyond manufacturing, with joint investments in advanced production technologies, workforce training and quality assurance systems. These initiatives align with India’s “Make in India” vision and support the country’s ambition to become a leading global aerospace manufacturing hub.
Lockheed Martin highlighted that its diversified global supply chain depends on high-performance partners, citing the Hyderabad facility as a model example of long-term industrial cooperation.
The delivery of the 250th tail assembly, company officials said, represents not just a production landmark but a strengthening of strategic ties between the United States and India in the defence and aerospace sectors.
C-130J: Global Workhorse Supported by Indian Manufacturing
The C-130J-30 is designed for demanding tactical airlift missions and long-range operations. It is known for its lower lifecycle cost, fuel efficiency and interoperability with partner air forces.
Since acquiring its first C-130J-30 in 2011, the Indian Air Force has repeatedly demonstrated the aircraft’s capabilities, from landings at high-altitude Himalayan airfields to complex night operations in challenging weather conditions.
Worldwide, more than 560 C-130Js have accumulated over 3 million flight hours. The fleet performs an extensive range of missions, including maritime patrol and aerial refuelling, search-and-rescue, medical evacuation, commercial transport, and peacekeeping operations.
Reflecting on the milestone, McLean highlighted the global impact of the joint manufacturing effort: “What we build together enhances operational readiness around the world. This accomplishment shows how effective international partnerships can be when built on commitment and capability.”
Team BharatShakti
