For the First Time, Military Transport Aircraft to be Manufactured in India
For the First Time, Military Transport Aircraft to be Manufactured in India
Prime Minister Modi and Spain's President Sanchez inaugurate the private sector manufacturing facility in Vadodara.
In a significant step towards strengthening India's defence production, the foundation stone for the country's first private sector military transport aircraft manufacturing plant was laid in Vadodara, Gujarat. This facility will be responsible for building the C-295 transport aircraft, which will enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
The project is a collaborative effort between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Spain's Airbus. Under this partnership, C-295 military transport aircraft will be manufactured in India, marking a milestone as this is the first time that such an aircraft will be made in India by a private entity. The Indian Air Force had ordered 56 C-295 aircraft, intended to replace the older Avro fleet. The first 16 aircraft will be delivered from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured at the new plant in Vadodara.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the plant, stated, "The country is moving from being a defence importer to becoming a defence exporter, paving the way for global partnerships in manufacturing within India."
Key Features of the C-295 Transport Aircraft
• Equipped with advanced systems, the C-295 meets the Indian Air Force's requirements for tactical transport, supply drops, medical evacuation, and surveillance.
• This aircraft has a carrying capacity of 71 soldiers or 50 paratroopers, with a maximum take-off weight of 23.2 tons.
• The aircraft can perform under extreme weather conditions and land on short and unprepared airstrips, making it suitable for India's varied terrain.
• The C-295 will be equipped with specialized mission systems, making it effective for border patrol, maritime operations, and disaster relief.
Highlights of the Partnership
• This plant, established in collaboration with Tata and Airbus, represents a significant leap in India's "Make in India" initiative, contributing to local manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
• The Vadodara facility will provide employment opportunities for approximately 15,000 individuals.
• The C-295 aircraft will be maintained, repaired, and overhauled at the facility, creating a sustainable aerospace ecosystem in the country.
Spanish President Sanchez expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that this project opens a new path for European companies to establish a foothold in India.
