Encouraged by moves made by the govt: Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is already contributing to it through the manufacture of aero-structure components in our joint venture with Tata Advanced Systems in Hyderabad … In fact, many of the companies that we have worked with over the years are now major contributors to our F35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft. So we are always looking for new partners to develop capability with and the ‘Make in India’ campaign may well help us identify opportunities to do more in India.

How has the partnership with the Tata Group unfolded so far?

Our joint venture (with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd) is producing centre-wing box spares and production leading edges and tail empennage sections for the C130J Super Hercules Transport Aircraft. These parts are exported to join the global supply chain for the aircraft.

Are there any specific challenges that companies face in India while negotiating defence deals?

Every country has individual challenges when negotiating defence, or any other kind of deal, so I wouldn’t single out India in this light. However, we are very encouraged by the moves being made by the current government to improve the ease of doing business here, and take on some of the regulatory challenges that face not just international but also domestic manufacturers. We believe that if they are successful, India will become an even more attractive investment destination and we, along with most other companies, will be looking for those conditions to adjust as we make our investment decisions.