Tata Advanced Systems has begun setting up a defence Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru to support the Indian Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules fleet. The move is expected to significantly boost the IAF’s readiness in high-tempo and high-altitude operations.
The facility, being established in partnership with Lockheed Martin, will anchor world-class sustainment capability within India, cutting turnaround time for heavy maintenance and overhauls while reducing dependence on overseas support. Once operational, it is expected to ensure quicker aircraft availability, faster mission preparedness and improved operational uptime for the IAF’s transport squadron.
The MRO facility will join the existing global network of Lockheed Martin Certified Service Centers and will be strategically located to service the C-130J Super Hercules, KC-130J and C-130 B-H legacy aircraft in the future.
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The IAF currently operates 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, a platform known for its tactical airlift role in hostile terrain, special operations and humanitarian missions. With the Bengaluru MRO, the fleet will now have local access to deep maintenance, structural checks, component repair, and overhauls. The move will help strengthen India’s ability to sustain prolonged air operations independently.
Construction of the facility is expected to conclude by the end of 2026, with the first aircraft slated to enter the facility for maintenance in early 2027. Once functional, the centre will also handle avionics upgrades, structural restoration and technical inspections critical to flight safety and mission reliability.
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Lockheed Martin’s Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John said the facility will significantly improve readiness levels for the IAF, bringing world-class sustainment capability into India and supporting both Indian and global C-130 operators.
The project also reinforces India’s industrial capability in defence aviation. Tata Advanced Systems, Lockheed Martin’s long-time partner in C-130 aerostructures manufacturing, will operate the MRO facility.
"This defence MRO facility will bolster response time and security in the Pacific, ensure world-class sustainment capability within India, aligning with the country's ambitions while advancing sustainment capability for the C-130J fleet across the globe," said Rod McLean, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Air Mobility and Maritime Missions.
