A new chapter is unfolding in India's aerospace industry with the establishment of a C295 aircraft production line in Vadodara, a collaboration between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL).
This landmark project, India's first private-sector aircraft manufacturing venture, is set to not only equip the Indian Air Force (IAF) with 56 new transport aircraft but also propel India into the global aerospace market.
This initiative marks a significant shift in India's defence manufacturing landscape. Airbus, for the first time, has set up a complete production line outside its home countries, partnering with TASL, a Tata Group subsidiary. The IAF will begin receiving these indigenously assembled C295 aircraft from 2026, making India the largest operator of the C295 worldwide.
The C295 is set to replace the IAF's aging Avro transport aircraft. Its versatility and ability to operate in diverse terrains make it ideal for military transport and humanitarian missions across India's challenging geography.
But the ambitions of this project extend far beyond India's borders. Airbus and Tata are actively exploring export opportunities, aiming to leverage this new production hub to supply C295 aircraft to international customers.
The C295 program has fostered a comprehensive industrial ecosystem in India. From sourcing raw materials to manufacturing over 13,000 intricate parts, the project involves multiple locations across the country. Parts manufacturing is centered in Nagpur, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, with Main Component Assembly (MCA) taking place in Hyderabad. These components are then transported to the Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Vadodara for final assembly, integration, and testing.
This setup positions India as a new global center for aircraft production. With a robust supply chain in place, India is poised to attract further aerospace investment and contribute significantly to the global aerospace market. Airbus has signaled its commitment to channeling future C295 orders through its Indian facilities, underscoring the long-term strategic importance of this partnership.
The Vadodara production line is a testament to India's growing capabilities in aerospace manufacturing. It strengthens Airbus's presence in India and solidifies Tata's position as a leader in advanced manufacturing, while also positioning India as a key player in the global aerospace industry.
