Lockheed Martin has formally proposed a $10.5 billion deal to India, centered on the expansion of C-130J Super Hercules production within the country. The offer, which aligns with India’s 'Make in India' initiative, seeks to deepen the strategic defense partnership between the United States and India by transitioning more manufacturing operations to Indian facilities.

The C-130J is a versatile tactical transport aircraft currently utilized by the Indian Air Force for a variety of missions, including humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and special operations. By proposing an expansion of production, Lockheed Martin aims to secure a long-term foothold in the Indian defense market while potentially lowering costs through local manufacturing efficiencies.

While the proposal represents a significant financial commitment, the details regarding the specific timeline for production, technology transfer agreements, and the exact split between domestic and international manufacturing remain subject to ongoing negotiations between the company and the Indian government. The bid is viewed as a major step in India's goal to reduce its reliance on foreign defense imports and establish itself as a global hub for aerospace manufacturing. As of now, both parties are evaluating the technical and financial feasibility of the proposal, with no final contract yet signed.