New Delhi: Lockheed Martin, a U.S.-based defence company, has partnered with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd to strengthen their collaboration on the C-130J Super Hercules tactical airlifter project, media reports said.

This announcement follows Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's recent visit to the United States, where both countries agreed to enhance defence cooperation.

The agreement outlines a framework for future business opportunities, including the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the Indian Air Force's existing fleet of 12 C-130Js, as well as other global Super Hercules aircraft.

Subject to approvals from the U.S. and Indian governments, the agreement includes provisions for expanding C-130J manufacturing and assembly in India, with the goal of producing aircraft for the Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, according to Tata Advanced Systems, reported PTI.

If Lockheed Martin is awarded the MTA contract, it will set up additional production and assembly facilities in India.

“Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF's MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems,” Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Tata Advanced Systems, was quoted as saying by PTI.

"The current announcement is also significant as it marks the entry of Tata Advanced Systems into the defence MRO space in India for large aircraft platforms," he said.

"This teaming agreement between Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems further demonstrates Lockheed Martin's commitment to a self-reliant India and the degree of confidence that exists in our relationships with our partners in India and the Indian industry at large," he added.

Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd have a long-standing partnership through the Tata Lockheed Martin Aerostructures Ltd (TLMAL) joint venture.

TLMAL was set up in 2010 and has manufactured over 220 C-130J empennages till date, the Tata Advance Systems said.