Committed to our ties with IAF: Lockheed

WASHINGTON: America's top defence sector manufacturer Lockheed Martin has said it remains committed to its relationship with the Indian Air Force despite losing out on India's multi-billion dollar combat fighter deal.

"We understand that the US Government is working on a response to the letter from the Indian government. Lockheed Martin remains committed to our relationship with the Indian Air Force, Ministry of Defence and the other Services," Lockheed spokesman said.

In fact, Lockheed is eyeing on the vast Indian defence market, as New Delhi goes on a massive buying spree in the coming years to modernise its armed forces.

"The US Government has informed Lockheed Martin that they have received a letter from the Indian MOD (Ministry of defense) concerning the M-MRCA (medium multi-role aircraft) competition," the spokesman said on the Indian decision to exclude both Lockheed and Boeing from its USD 11 billion 126 fighter jet plane deal.

Lockheed Martin's F-16 was in contention for the bid. The firm said it has several world class products which it believes is most suitable for India's security needs.

"Lockheed Martin has several world-class products offering the most advanced and reliable technology we believe is suitable for India's security needs," the spokesman told PTI.

Lockheed Martin upgraded its Indian presence in 2005 and relocated the office to enable better support for marketing teams from the US.