BANGALORE: Riding on the successful partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in Hyderabad, American defense behemoth Lockheed Martin (LM) says it is hopeful of emulating the story if gets the opportunity to set up the F-16 Block 70 production line in India.
In an interview to Mathrubhumi, Randall L Howard, who looks after F-16 Business Development at LM, said that the lessons from the JV with TASL are inspiring.
“The JV has proven that Indian industry can manufacture airframe components for the C-130J airlifter and the S-92 helicopter. We hope to build on that success with the F-16, the world’s most successful, combat-proven multi-role fighter,” Randall said.
While the current projection for a single-engine fighter for the Indian Air Force (IAF) is in excess of 100, LM says the numbers would significantly go up.
“What we have offered is a huge opportunity for India to become a key global supplier for F-16. We are looking into the future. All future exports of F16s will be from the production that we would like to set up in India,” Randall said.
He said LM would shift its only F-16 production plant (Texas) to India. “Our proposal is best and one that takes into account of IAF’s future as well. It’s a very strategic proposal that would boost India’s emerging defense supply chain, thanks to the Make in India mission,” he added.
India’s aviation talent to get immense exposure
Abhay Paranjape, Director, Business Development, LM said the F-16 Block 70 fighters would give a great exposure to India’s aerospace talent.
“I am excited about the technological leap India would make with having a production line here. The exposure gives to Indian engineers. We have truly inspiring lessons from Hyderabad (TASL-LM JV). Right now we are scanning the aviation might of cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai and Delhi. We have met with over 30 different companies whom we feel have the potential to partner with us. We are understanding their strengths. We are also in talks with HAL, DRDO, and BEL,” says Abhay.
When asked about the one key factor that could stand out if LM is selected for the current IAF requirement, Abhay said: “There are many factors and most importantly, it would be cost. The plant in India would certainly bring down the cost of F-16s. This would have a positive bearing on its global demand and again India would gain.”