Defence

Indian Air Force continues to sign Lockheed Martin for comprehensive support of Super Hercules fleet

The new contract is a continuation of the Follow-on-Support I contract where Lockheed Martin provided similar support for the IAF’s C-130J fleet.
Apart from logistics and engineering support Lockheed Martin will also cover sustainment efforts for IAF’s entire Super Hercules fleet.

Being an OEM of the C-130Js, Lockheed Martin is the best to provide logistics and engineering support elements essential to sustain the fleet

25 August 2021: The Indian Air Force has continued to place its trust in Lockheed Martin by continuing a five-year Direct Commercial Sale Follow-on-Support (FOS II) contract for the comprehensive support of IAF’s fleet of 12 C-130J-30 Super Hercules Aircraft. The new contract is worth USD 328.8 million and spans for another five years.  

Being an OEM of the C-130Js, Lockheed Martin is the best to provide logistics and engineering support elements essential to sustain the fleet like airframe, Contractor Furnished Equipment (CFE), peculiar and common sparable items, engines, propellers, software, publication services, ground handling equipment (GHE), ground support equipment (GSE) and test equipment. Apart from this the contract will also cover sustainment efforts for IAF’s entire Super Hercules fleet.

Rod McLean, vice president and general manager, Air Mobility & Maritime Missions, Lockheed Martin said, “As the C-130 OEM, Lockheed Martin brings forth an outstanding team of experts who offer deep knowledge and unmatched insights of the C-130 to our operators. It is an honour to continue to partner with the Indian Air Force to support one of the most active C-130J fleets in the world. Through an integrated team and dedicated support, Lockheed Martin ensures the IAF’s C-130J fleet is available and ready for every mission.”

Additionally, five C-130J Hercules will undergo 12-year depot maintenance at Lockheed Martin-approved Heavy Maintenance Centre in 2022. Besides eight employees representing Lockheed Martin, GE (propeller manufacturer) and Rolls-Royce (engine manufacturer) will serve as on-site technical support during the contract duration of five years.

This contract is a continuation of the Follow-on-Support I contract where Lockheed Martin provided similar support for the IAF’s C-130J fleet.

The IAF’s C-130J Super Hercules have a highly integrated and sophisticated configuration primarily designed to support India’s special operations requirement. The aircraft also are equipped with air-to-air receiver refuelling capability for extended range operations. They are also used to support a variety of critical missions, including humanitarian aid, airlift, natural disaster support, and search and rescue operations. Recently, the IAF has been extensively using its fleet of 12 Super Hercules for humanitarian efforts in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as for transportation of relief materials, equipment and personnel in the areas affected by cyclones Yaas and Tauktae.