Lockheed Martin Holds 11th India Suppliers Conference

Lockheed Martin’s 11th Annual Suppliers Conference | Photo: Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin concluded the 11th edition of its India Suppliers Conference on November 3 in Bengaluru, bringing together more than 30 Indian companies to discuss opportunities for integration into the company’s global supply chains.

According to the company, the one-day conference included participants from large enterprises, MSMEs, and start-ups. More than 100 delegates attended the event, during which close to 50 business-to-business meetings were organized to explore potential partnerships.

The conference included senior serving officers from the Indian Armed Forces and officials from the Government of Karnataka. Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner for Industrial Development and Director, Department of Industries & Commerce, highlighted the state’s role in advanced manufacturing and innovation.

Abby Lilly, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Lockheed Martin, discussed the role of global sourcing, manufacturing processes, and policy frameworks in strengthening India–U.S. collaboration.

Michael Fernandez, India country head for Lockheed Martin, said, “Our annual Suppliers Conferences reflect Lockheed Martin’s enduring commitment to partnership and strengthening India’s defence industrial ecosystem. We continue to identify and engage with Indian suppliers to co-create innovative solutions that enhance supply chain integration and expand global market access. We look forward to deepening collaborations that achieve shared growth across the India and U.S. defence sectors.”

Lockheed Martin recognized two Indian firms for their contributions to its programs. Rossell Techsys Ltd received an award for its support to the company’s production programs and offset-related commitments. Veer-O-Metals Pvt. Ltd. was acknowledged for work related to quality control and cost initiatives.

Following the conference, Lockheed Martin’s supply chain teams are scheduled to visit about 20 supplier facilities across India to assess capabilities and evaluate potential cooperation.

The company stated that the event builds upon several decades of association in India and forms part of efforts to develop industry partnerships aligned with procurement needs of the Indian Armed Forces and the broader domestic defence manufacturing framework.