Ambassador Douglas A. Hartwick - CEO, Lockheed Martin India Operations

How do you perceive the growth of Aero India since its inception?

We at Lockheed Martin are very impressed with the growth of Aero India and as always we are pleased to be a part of the air show.

C-130 has also been one of the major exhibits during the show. What potential do you see further in India as the same has already been opted by India for its special forces? What all missions the C-130 is set to address?

Lockheed Martin is prepared to support any missions the IAF or the Government of India selects for the C-130.

The refueler version of C-130 is KC-130J. Do you see any potential of this version in India? What all strength this version may add to Indian forces’ capabilities?

Lockheed Martin is providing the IAF and other government agencies information on C-130 variants upon request. The decision of what may be selected and when is one to be made by the Government of India.

When do you think India’s MMRCA programme will get finalised and where do you see the F-16 IN stands as one of the six contenders?

We are awaiting announcement of the field trials and are eager to show the IAF the capabilities of the F-16IN Super Viper. We believe the F-16 IN will be extremely competitive.

What has been the experience out of having Abhinav Bindra (India’s first Olympic gold medalist) aboard F-16 IN? Would you like to share your views with us?

Lockheed Martin was very pleased to have Abhinav Bindra fly in the F-16IN Super Viper. It was a perfect fit. Lockheed Martin and Abhinav share the same commitment to integrity and it is important to note that the F-16IN and Abhinav have achieved absolute excellence in performance.

Which other programmes were showcased apart from renowned F-16 IN and C-130 which already is a success in Indian context as well, during the show?

Missiles and Fire Control … precision-strike anti-armor Hellfire II®, the DAGR™ a guidance kit designed to defeat non-armored and lightly armored targets that also minimizes collateral damage and Lockheed Martin’s Sniper® Advanced Targeting Pod.

Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors … a wide range of proven maritime systems, the MH-60R, the U.S. Navy’s most advanced anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter and the cutting-edge K-MAX® helicopter for both manned and unmanned missions.

What kinds of responses to the presence of your company have been received during the show?

The reception we received during Aero India 2009 was excellent.

Can you give some details on any tie-up/ joint-venture/ MoU that would have been concluded during the show?

Discussions with industry, IAF and the Government of India are ongoing.

Have you specifically concluded any new arrangement on offset partner during the show and if so in the context of which particular potential deal?

Lockheed Martin continues to discuss offset options with businesses in India.

How satisfied do you feel with the outcome of participation at Aero India and please advise if there is any message for the organizers?

Lockheed Martin was extremely pleased with Aero India 2009.