US Ambassador Sergio Gor Visits Tata Lockheed Martin Facility in Hyderabad

United States Ambassador to India Sergio Gor visited the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Limited facility in Hyderabad on Monday, August 24, 2026, underscoring the expanding strategic partnership and defence manufacturing cooperation between the United States and India.

During his visit to the Hyderabad facility, Gor toured the production line that manufactures empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. According to a company statement, the facility highlights the integration of Indian manufacturing into the global aerospace supply chain through Tata Advanced Systems Limited's long-standing joint venture with Lockheed Martin.

Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Gor said the production of critical structures for the C-130J in India serves as a strong example of growing industrial and defence collaboration between both nations. He noted that such joint efforts generate high-skilled employment, build resilient supply chains, and support a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.

The visit takes place as Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Lockheed Martin look to broaden their joint capabilities to compete for India's recently announced Medium Transport Aircraft requirement. Lockheed Martin stated that the joint venture possesses the established capacity to scale aerospace manufacturing in support of the programme.

Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said the partnership has expanded beyond supplying aerostructures to include maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. The upcoming maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility is scheduled to open in December 2026, with aircraft anticipated to arrive beginning in spring 2027.

The C-130J aircraft is deployed internationally for tactical airlift, special missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations. Officials noted that India's involvement in producing empennages reflects the nation's expanding aerospace manufacturing sector and supports the central government's Make in India initiative.