Citing New Delhi-based policy analyst Prateek Joshi, it said, the MRO centre designed to support the Indian Air Force’s fleet of 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, could serve regional operators, positioning India as “a hub for heavy-airlift support across the Indo-Pacific.”

“What makes this facility strategically important is that it goes far beyond routine upkeep. We’re talking about depot-level sustainment, including heavy structural work, avionics upgrades and deep inspections that directly determine how long aircraft stay operational.” FORUM quoted Joshi as saying.