The Indian Air Force is purchasing six C-130J-30 transport aircraft from the US through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procedure for $962.7m.

The proposed deal also includes procurement of ground support equipment, training and spares, said Defence Minister AK Antony in a written reply to the lower House of the Parliament.

The Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company-built C-130J-30 aircraft is a medium lift transport aircraft, which will be used for special operations.

The delivery of the aircraft is expected to commence from February 2011 and conclude by January 2012.