FILLING THE GAP

A new Medium Transport Aircraft is essential for the IAF, but it will have to compete with other pressing programmes fighting for limited budgetary resources, analyses ATUL CHANDRA.

- ATUL CHANDRA

The Indian Air Force (IAF) requirement for a new Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) in the 18-30 tonne category is a key acquisition for the air arm, which will be called on to provide logistic support to the Army in any future conflict. Ongoing tensions with China mean that chances of flare-ups in the contested border areas could require quick transportation of men and material in hilly and inhospitable terrain. In any such future situation, access to a sizeable fleet of modern MTAs will be a vital force multiplier for the Indian armed forces, allowing quick induction of troops and equipment into difficult terrain even in poor weather conditions.

While there is no doubt about the importance of procuring a modern medium transport type for the Air Force, it will have to compete with other pressing aircraft, helicopters, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and groundbased weapon systems procurements, all gunning for the limited procurement budget. It is estimated that a deal for 40 new MTAs could cost somewhere in the region of *65,000 crore, which could increase should additional aircraft be considered.

The December 2022 Request for Information (RFI) released by the IAF stated its need to procure an MTA with 18 to 30 tonne of cargo carrying capacity, that would be used to undertake a missions such as transport of troops/cargo, para/ cargo drop, casualty evacuation, combat free fall, etc. While the number of aircraft needed is yet to be finalised, the air force has asked for costs to be provided for a potential procurement of 40, 60 and 80 aircraft. It has also asked that deliveries commence within 36 months of the contract signature. This would mean some portion of the aircraft would need to be delivered in 'fly-away' condition before locally assembled aircraft would be ready for delivery.