Lockheed-Tata sign pact to make F-16 in India
19th June, 2017Category:
U.S. aircraft major Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) signed an unprecedented agreement to make the F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft in India to meet the IAF's single-engine jet requirement. F-16 production in India supports thousands of Lockheed Martin and F-16 supplier jobs in the US, creates new manufacturing jobs in India. India will also have the chance to export the F-16 that is flown by air forces around the world.
The IAF is about to initiate the process for selection of a single-engine fighter aircraft to replace the Soviet-era fleet of MiGs under the Strategic Partnership model of the Defence Procurement Procedure. The Strategic Partnership model has four segments — submarines, single-engine fighter aircraft, helicopters and armoured carriers/main battle tanks — and specifically intends to open up defence manufacturing to the private sector. Sweden's SAAB is the other contender to supply the Indian Air Force, offering to make its Gripen fighter in India.
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