Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) and Lockheed Martin have announced an agreement to commence production of F-16 wings in India for export. This strategic initiative positions TASL to become the provider of wings for all future customers and strengthens its role in the F-16 global supply chain.

The two companies said that the planned F-16 wing production move to India is not contingent on the Government of India selecting the F-16 for the Indian Air Force.

In June 2017, Lockheed and TASL had signed an agreement affirming the companies' intent to team up to produce the F-16 Block 70 in India. This was in response to an Indian Air Force plan to acquire over 100 single-engine fighters to be produced in cooperation with foreign partners under the Make in India initiative.

The original plan was reportedly dropped earlier this year, and the programme is now expected to be opened up to include twin-engine candidates.

TASL and Lockheed have existing partnerships for the production of components for the C-130J military transport, as well as cabins and other components for the S-92 helicopter at TASL's Hyderabad facility.

In April, the two companies inaugurated a 4,700m² metal-to-metal bonding facility at Adibatla, Hyderabad, described as the first of its kind in India.