By Aritra Banerjee
Lockheed Martin India Private Limited, a leading aerospace and defence company subsidiary, is set to participate in Aero India 2023 with a focus on showcasing its advanced capabilities and addressing its customers’ pressing concerns. According to William Blair, Chief Executive Officer of Lockheed Martin India Pvt Ltd, the event will also offer opportunities for the local industry to be integrated into the global supply chain and manufacturing for India and the world.
The company has been working towards strengthening its presence and partnerships in India for strategic security and self-reliance in the defence sector. This is reflected in the country’s two joint ventures and multiple associations with public and private companies, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
At the event, the highlight of the Lockheed Martin booth will be the F-21 fighter aircraft cockpit demonstrator, offering defence and aerospace customers the chance to experience the jet’s performance firsthand. The F-21 is configured with the latest sensors and mission avionic systems, providing practical, easy-to-manage combat situation displays. The aircraft is being offered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) competition.
The MH-60R SEAHAWK helicopter, the Indian Navy’s latest rotary wing acquisition, will also be on display. As the world’s most capable and mature Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare multi-mission helicopter, the first three MH-60Rs were delivered to India in 2021 and are being utilised for pilot and crew training in the US. Another three helicopters were accepted by the Indian Navy at Kochi International Airport in July/August 2022 and will be based at Naval Air Station INS Garuda in Kochi. The delivery of the remaining 24 MH-60Rs will be completed in the coming years.
In addition, Lockheed Martin’s exhibit will feature the Javelin anti-tank precision weapon system, known for its versatility as a one-person portable and platform-employed weapon. The system uses “fire-and-forget” technology, allowing soldiers and platform assets to reposition once the missile is fired.
Also making an appearance at the event will be the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and the S-92Ⓡ multi-role helicopter, demonstrating Lockheed Martin’s long-standing partnership with the Indian defence industry.
