Aircraft
Indian Air Force Seeks New Transport Aircraft Proposals
Lockheed Martin and Embraer could be in contention for defense deal
Indian Air Force C130J transport aircraft
The Indian Air Force already operates 12 Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, one of the types under consideration for a new contract.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially launched its hunt for its new medium transport aircraft. A request for proposal, issued on August 12 by the country's Ministry of Defence outlined a requirement for 60 new airframes with an option clause for more in a potentially sizeable deal worth around $10 billion. The procurement is being initiated to replace India’s ageing fleet of Antonov An-32 and Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft.

Lockheed Martin of the U.S. and Brazil’s Embraer are expected to be among the frontrunners. Bidders will be expected to make provision for domestic manufacturing, including the establishment of an in-country final assembly line, under the terms of the government's Made in India policy.