New Delhi has moved closer to finalising an order for a batch of six additional Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules tactical transports for the Indian air force, following approval by the nation’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).
The decision – taken on 13 September by the DAC, headed by defence minister A K Antony – to approve the purchase will now need final ratification from the government’s Cabinet Committee on Security.
India had submitted a letter of request to the USA for the purchase of additional C-130Js in September 2012, and received clearance from the US administration in April 2013.
The C-130Js will be purchased through the Foreign Military Sales route, as was the case for a first batch of six aircraft. The new transports will be based at Panagarh in India’s eastern state of West Bengal.
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Indian air force |
The six aircraft from the initial 2008 order are now in operation with the service’s 77 Sqn from Hindon air base.
Source: Flight International
