Lockheed Martin and Leonardo have signed an agreement to explore strengthening maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the C-130J Super Hercules across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA).
The agreement will see Leonardo further integrated into Lockheed Martin’s global C-130 support network, with plans to position the company as a regional MRO centre for operators across these territories. As part of the initiative, Lockheed Martin is expected to provide technical assistance, equipment, and training to enhance Leonardo’s capabilities in Italy, reinforcing its role as a strategic hub for sustaining the C-130J fleet.
More than 570 C-130J aircraft have been delivered globally to 27 countries, including 16 across Europe and the MENA region—many of which could benefit from expanded regional MRO services. A strengthened service centre in Italy is expected to improve fleet readiness, provide closer proximity support, and deliver original equipment manufacturer-certified maintenance.
The initiative also aims to enhance operational efficiency and interoperability among NATO C-130J operators in Europe, ensuring consistent standards and improved coordination across allied fleets.
The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two companies, spanning over 20 years of support for the Italian Air Force’s Super Hercules fleet. Leonardo’s experience is further reinforced by its role as both manufacturer and MRO provider for the C-27J Spartan, which is widely operated alongside the C-130J in complementary roles.
“As requirements evolve, so does the Super Hercules thanks to approved C-130 service centres that increase the readiness of fleets and create resiliency for the region and global community,” said Trish Pagan, Vice President of Air Mobility and Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin. “Investment and teaming with Leonardo will create a better capability for Europe and an ability to expand services to other regions.”
“The decision to expand Leonardo’s footprint within the C-130J MRO market demonstrates the recognised quality of our performance and our ability to meet customer requirements across a complex region,” stated Tommaso Pani, SVP Marketing and Sales at Leonardo Aeronautics. “We thank Lockheed Martin for their trust and look forward to starting activities for this new endeavour.”
