India's first three C-130Js near completion

[SBD-3]

Lockheed has so far delivered 195 of the 288 C-130Js ordered. The company is currently considering increasing production of the type from a current rate of 26 per year, says Jim Grant, its vice-president customer engagement, air mobility and special operations programmes.

“We feel we have got sufficient backlog, and the market opportunities are such that a ramp-up is possible,” says Grant. However, Lockheed will make a “controlled and conservative” decision, he adds.

 

[liberalindian8]

What will Indian armed forces do with only 3 of them. They should have ordered atleast 30?

 

[welcome]

What will Indian armed forces do with only 3 of them. They should have ordered atleast 30?

yes they can buy 300 only if u finance them.

 

[intelarpit]

yes they can buy 300 only if u finance them.

 

[mjnaushad]

What will Indian armed forces do with only 3 of them. They should have ordered atleast 30?

Dude its C130 not Auto Rikshaw.

 

[sancho]

What will Indian armed forces do with only 3 of them. They should have ordered atleast 30?

At first, we ordered 6 so far, secondly we are co-developing MRTA with Russia, which will be in the same class, so no need for high numbers of C130s.

 

[Terminator]

When it is expected to arrive???

 

[mrwarrior006]

this will surely increase our logistics support capability greatly

 

[SBD-3]

please refer to the title India's first three C-130Js near completion...I hope it will weed out confusions

 

[SBD-3]

At first, we ordered 6 so far, secondly we are co-developing MRTA with Russia, which will be in the same class, so no need for high numbers of C130s.

but then I guess it would be wise to go for only one platform in large numbers rather than 2 platforms as
1) India would save significant money (spent on RD) in case they would opt for C-130 in large numbers
2) Or ordered more MARTAs inorder to enjoy benefits of economies of scale
what do you say

 

[sancho]

but then I guess it would be wise to go for only one platform in large numbers rather than 2 platforms as
1) India would save significant money (spent on RD) in case they would opt for C-130 in large numbers
2) Or ordered more MARTAs inorder to enjoy benefits of economies of scale
what do you say

True, if the main aim behind C130J would be the same as behind MRTA. The MRTA is a replacement for AN 32 and some Hawker Siddeley cargo transporters, that also carries paratroopers. The C130Js can perform in the same roles of course, but are aimed for special ops in the first place!

India's C-130J India’s Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules Airlifter


The Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules is the most advanced airlifter ever built. The C-130J combines the latest in aerospace technology with a proven, rugged airframe design, resulting in an aircraft that gives an operator more capability with greater operational efficiency.

This is India’s first experience with C-130s so the package being provided by the U.S. government is a complete solution. The package includes six aircraft, three years of initial support, training of aircrew and maintenance technicians, spares, ground support and test equipment, servicing carts, forklifts, loading vehicles, cargo pallets, and a team of technical specialists who will be based in India during the three year initial support period. Also included in the package is India-unique operational equipment designed to increase Special Operations capabilities. In addition, the C-130J Super Hercules will provide the Indian Air Force with modern and effective airlift to support a wide range of national requirements.

In keeping with IAF requirements, the US Government has offered a unique C-130J configuration modified for special mission roles. Equipped with an Infrared Detection Set (IDS), the aircraft will be able to perform precision low-level flying, airdrops, and landing in blackout conditions. Self protection systems and other features are included to ensure aircraft survivability in hostile air defence environments. In addition the aircraft is equipped with air-to-air receiver refueling capability for extended range operations. Lockheed Martin will integrate this equipment and other capabilities into the Indian configuration as agreed between the governments...

India's C-130J | Lockheed Martin

As you can see, just like the C17s, the main aim behind these is tactical transport of cargo, troops, vehicles and comando forces and only in addition the normal cargo role that MRTA, or IL 76 have.
IAF is not only diversifying with US arms, but also specialising! The US, or western arms can offer special capabilities that Russian can't offer and that's why it's good to go for them in smaller numbers, in addition to bigger numbers of others. That might cost some more, but increases capabilities clearly!