The Indian Air Force inducted the first of six Lockheed Martin C-130J ‘Super Hercules’ aircraft into its transportation fleet today at a ceremony at Air Force Station Hindan. This historic induction is indicative of the growing defense relationship between the U.S. and India, and the India-specific C-130J will prove to be an important addition to the IAF’s special missions capability.
After the induction, U.S. Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer said: “The sale of the C-130J to the IAF on-time and on-budget is exactly the type of win-win situation President Obama talked about during his historic visit to India last November. With the C-130J, Indian defense can bring their troops what they need, when they need it, and to wherever they are located. And the United States wins too with better defense cooperation with India, new markets opened, and the creation of American jobs. A strong defense relationship is a key component of the U.S.-India strategic partnership. The sale of six C-130J aircraft strengthens our bilateral military relationship and enhances joint regional security efforts between our two democracies. As President Obama said during his historic address to Parliament, ‘as two global leaders, the United States and India can partner for global security.’ The growing capabilities of the Indian military are a testament to his vision of India’s expanding role as a global leader.”
The C-130J is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft that can be used for troop deployment, special operations, air-to-air refueling, disaster relief, and humanitarian aid operations. Its superior technology and unique configuration enables the aircraft to perform precision low-level flying, airdrops, and landing in blackout conditions. It has been used in peacekeeping missions in Africa, for tsunami relief efforts in Indonesia, and to support firefighting efforts in the United States.
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