The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked a significant milestone in its fleet modernization efforts with the arrival of the third Airbus C295 transport aircraft on May 28th. This delivery is part of a larger procurement program involving 56 C295s, which will ultimately replace the aging Avro-748 fleet.
The C295 acquisition is the product of a unique "Make in India" partnership between Airbus Defence and Space and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). The collaboration not only ensures the delivery of these critical transport aircraft but also establishes domestic production capabilities, enhancing India's self-reliance in the defense sector.
Phased Delivery and Domestic Production
Under the agreement, the first 16 C295 aircraft will be manufactured at Airbus facilities in Seville, Spain. The remaining 40 aircraft, however, will be built in India by TASL at a dedicated Final Assembly Line (FAL) in Vadodara, Gujarat. The first "Made in India" C295 is expected to roll out in September 2026.This two-pronged approach ensures the timely delivery of the aircraft while simultaneously building domestic manufacturing expertise and fostering a robust aerospace ecosystem in India.
Superior Capabilities
The Airbus C295, a modern twin-turboprop transport aircraft, significantly improves upon the capabilities of the IAF's legacy Avro-748 fleet. Its advanced technology allows for a wider range of missions, including rapid troop deployment, paradropping of supplies, and efficient cargo transportation.This enhanced capability is expected to bolster the IAF's operational readiness and responsiveness in a variety of scenarios, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
