In a significant stride towards modernization, the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently marked a milestone with the delivery of the second of 56 C295 aircraft, signaling a strategic shift in its aerial capabilities. This acquisition, formalized in September 2021, underscores India’s commitment to upgrading its fleet and enhancing operational efficiency.
The acquisition, valued at Rs 21,935 crore, heralds the retirement of the ageing Avro-748 fleet, paving the way for technologically advanced and versatile C295 aircraft. Airbus Defence and Space, in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), is at the forefront of this transformative project, with 16 aircraft slated for production in Seville, Spain, and the remaining 40 to be manufactured and assembled in Gujarat’s Vadodara.
Many believer, what sets this initiative apart is its alignment with India’s ‘Make in India’ Aerospace program, marking a departure from the traditional monopoly held by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in military aircraft manufacturing. However, other subset believes HAL stepped up to meet requirements when India was pushed down with sanctions. This shift not only promotes indigenous capabilities but also fosters strategic partnerships and technological advancements in the private sector.
The C295MW aircraft, boasting a capacity of 5-10 tonnes, integrates contemporary technology tailored to meet the IAF’s evolving operational requirements. Its rear ramp door facilitates swift troop deployment and cargo transport, enhancing the IAF’s rapid response capabilities.
The timeline for this ambitious venture is clear, with the first ‘Make in India’ C295 slated to roll out of the Vadodara plant in September 2026, marking a significant leap in domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities. This aligns with the broader vision of bolstering India’s self-reliance and fostering a robust defense industrial base.
The contract signed between the Indian Defence Ministry and Airbus Defence and Space, Spain, underscores a strategic partnership aimed at fortifying India’s defense capabilities. The agreement encompasses the delivery of 16 flyaway C295 aircraft from Spain within 48 months and the indigenous production of 40 aircraft by the TATA Consortium within a decade.
Beyond the numerical aspects, this acquisition symbolizes a paradigm shift in India’s defense procurement strategy, emphasizing indigenous production, technology transfer, and collaborative ventures. It not only augments the IAF’s operational readiness but also catalyzes economic growth, job creation, and technological innovation in the aerospace sector.
As India embarks on this transformative journey in defense modernization, the C295 aircraft acquisition stands as a testament to strategic foresight, technological prowess, and collaborative synergies driving the nation’s defense narrative towards self-reliance and resilience.