C295 Aircraft project: A new era in India's aerospace manufacturing

This versatile aircraft is set to revolutionize IAF's airlift capabilities

- SIMONTINI BHATTACHARJEE

NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian aerospace industry are on the cusp of a significant milestone with the C295 aircraft project. This versatile and advanced tactical airlift aircraft is set to revolutionize the IAF's airlift capabilities, marking a significant step towards modernization.

In September 2021, the Ministry of Defence signed a landmark contract worth Rs 21,935 crore with Airbus Defence and Space SA of Spain for the supply of 56 C295 aircraft. This move is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the IAF's transport fleet and bolster India's aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

Out of the 56 aircraft, 16 will be delivered in fly-away condition directly from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. TASL, a strategic entity under Tata Aerospace and Defence, is leading the Indian manufacturing consortium in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space SA. This collaboration is a testament to the 'Make in India' initiative, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and create high-skilled job opportunities.

The delivery of the C295 aircraft is progressing smoothly.

The first aircraft was delivered in September 2023, and as of now, the IAF has inducted six C295 aircraft into its 11 Squadron, based at Vadodara. The remaining 10 of the 16 fly-away aircraft will be delivered by August 2025.