Lockheed Martin has delivered the first of six C-130J aircraft to the Indian air force.
The Rolls-Royce AE2100-powered transport, handed over on 16 December, will be flown to India together with the second aircraft in early January. The remaining four aircraft are to be delivered later in 2011.
India's air force - the fourth-largest in the world - placed the order in late 2008 as part of the country's first military deal with the USA.
In addition to the aircraft, the $1.2 billion contract includes flight and maintenance training, spares, ground support and test equipment, servicing carts, forklifts, loading vehicles, cargo pallets and a team of technical specialists who will relocate to India for a three-year initial support period.
The airlifter will be fitted out with customised equipment for special operations. This includes an infrared detection set for precision low-level flying, airdrops and landing in blackout conditions; self-protection systems and other features to ensure aircraft survivability in hostile environments; and the capability to be refuelled in the air.
The C-130J fleet will be based at the Hindon air base in Uttar Pradesh.
Source: Flight International
