Lockheed Martin will complete deliveries next month under a contract to supply the Indian air force with six C-130J tactical transports.

The manufacturer announced on 8 September, that the Indian air force's fifth C-130J had left its Marietta production and flight test site in Georgia on its delivery journey to Hindon air base near New Delhi.

 India C-130J 5 ready - Lockheed Martin

India C-130J 5 away - Lockheed Martin

Both images © Lockheed Martin

"India's sixth C-130J will be delivered in October," said Lockheed, adding that the fifth aircraft was being handed over "well ahead of schedule". 

Deliveries of the stretched-fuselage transports started in December 2010.

The company expects to receive a follow-on deal from India for a further six C-130Js.

Source: Flight International