Embraer C-390 Emerges as Cost-Effective Option in IAF's MTA Deal, Local Manufacturing Key

The Indian Air Force's (IAF) ambitious quest for a new Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) is gaining momentum, with early indications suggesting the Embraer C-390 Millennium might present a cost-effective solution compared to its rivals.

Sources reveal that Embraer's proposal for the IAF includes not only the C-390 aircraft but also a comprehensive Technology Transfer (ToT) package, enabling local manufacturing.

This offering comes with an estimated per-unit cost of $140-160 million, potentially undercutting the anticipated price for the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules, a long-standing favorite in the IAF's fleet.

While the C-130J enjoys a proven track record within the IAF, having procured six units in 2012 for $1.05 billion, its current international unit cost falls within the $130-167 million range. The Airbus A400M, another contender, offers a higher payload capacity but carries a significantly higher price tag, ranging from $220-240 million per unit.

The IAF has yet to issue a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) detailing unit costs based on the final procurement figures. While Embraer's initial offer appears financially attractive, the IAF will conduct a thorough evaluation, assessing the C-390's capabilities against its operational requirements.

One key advantage of the C-390 is its superior cargo capacity. Its robust structure allows it to transport heavier payloads (up to 26,000 kg) compared to the C-130J's 20,227 kg limit. This enhanced capacity could prove a decisive factor for the IAF.

India's emphasis on local manufacturing adds another layer of complexity. While the chosen aircraft will be produced domestically, potentially incurring additional upfront investment costs, this approach aligns with India's goals of self-reliance and long-term economic benefits.

Although the initial price estimates position the Embraer C-390 favorably, the IAF's final decision will rest on a comprehensive evaluation, considering factors such as unit cost, operational capabilities, and the long-term advantages of local manufacturing. The competition promises to be a close one between the C-390 and the C-130J, with the IAF's strategic priorities ultimately determining the winner.

 

[MF]

India needs to make sure that whichever company wins they have to manufacture the plane in India with a large ToT and local production. The air force should look at the An 70 from Ukraine. We will get a better deal as Ukraine needs the money and we can get a higher amount of ToT and local production compared to other countries. The plane has a good, fuel efficient and reliable engine using a prop fan engine which lasts longer and it’s easy to maintain.

What data did you use to state that Ukrainian aircraft have good, reliable engines with low fuel consumption and are easier to maintain?
These questions are difficult to analyze as they are not publicly available. Furthermore, it must be considered that Ukrainians have not achieved commercial success with their products this century.

 

[Sandeep]

What data did you use to state that Ukrainian aircraft have good, reliable engines with low fuel consumption and are easier to maintain?
These questions are difficult to analyze as they are not publicly available. Furthermore, it must be considered that Ukrainians have not achieved commercial success with their products this century.

That data is easily available. Also we bought the An 47 planes and they are still in service for the last 40+ years. Also the An 70 has just recently been reworked and developed into a modern plane.

 

[Bhupesh Desai]

C130-J has a proven record of landing in rough landing strip and short landing strip. Can others perform the same? Also agreed cargo capacity is also one of the parameter where C130-J fails to meet anything above 20 tone; also US company you can never trust as US government may case a problems in times of need for India to use technology. I think Embraer maight be de facto choice.

 

[NPK]

Why has no one mentioned the Kawasaki C2 airlifter? It's more suitable than all the options mentioned in this Post!