India could add six more C-130Js this year, says Lockheed official

New Delhi could sign a follow-on order for Lockheed Martin's C-130J Hercules transport this year.

"India is looking at six more C-130Js," says Roger Rose, chief executive of Lockheed Martin India. "It was always an option under the original agreement."

Lockheed in December delivered the first of six C-130Js purchased under New Delhi's first transaction with the US foreign military sales system. Signed in late 2008, the $1.2 billion deal opened the door to India for US manufacturers after the Bush administration dropped sanctions over the country's nuclear programme, and allowed arms exports for the first time.

The C-130J deal was followed by another notable military aircraft sale, with the Indian navy to receive eight Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. The nation's air force has hopes to acquire 10 Boeing C-17 strategic transports.

© Lockheed Martin India received the first of its C-130Js in December 2010

Source: Flight International