Airbus Defence and Space delivered the first of 56 C295 aircraft to the Indian Air Force in a fly-away condition. This handover took place at Airbus’ production site in Seville, Spain, in the presence of IAF Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari. The C295, configured for transport and equipped with an indigenous electronic warfare suite, will soon depart for Delhi, piloted by a joint IAF-Airbus crew, bolstering one of the world’s largest and most formidable air forces.
This initial aircraft is part of a total order of 16 medium-lift tactical transport planes that will be assembled in Seville and delivered in flyaway condition to the IAF. The second aircraft is expected in May 2024, followed by the remaining 14, with one delivered each month until August 2025.
To support the ‘Make in India’ initiative and domestic aviation manufacturing, Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) will manufacture and assemble the remaining 40 aircraft at a transport aircraft manufacturing project inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Vadodara, Gujarat.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Airbus’ Head of Military Air Systems, highlighted the significance of this delivery, stating, “Today, we are enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Air Force and modernizing its transport fleet by delivering the first aircraft on schedule. This is the beginning of an exciting and long-term journey with the Indian Air Force.”
Production of aircraft components has already begun in Hyderabad, southern India, with plans for the Vadodara FAL (Final Assembly Line) to become operational by November 2024. The first ‘Make in India’ C295 is anticipated to roll out in September 2026, with the final aircraft scheduled for delivery to the IAF by August 2031.
The C295, renowned for its versatility, boasts 283 orders from 41 operators. It can transport up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers, airdrop cargo, conduct medical evacuations, and operate from short and unpaved runways, strengthening the IAF’s logistics capabilities. The aircraft’s features include a rear ramp door for quick troop and cargo deployments and the ability to take off and land on semi-prepared surfaces. Additionally, it has potential civilian applications.
This program represents a significant step for Indian aerospace manufacturing, involving the development of a comprehensive industrial ecosystem from manufacturing to delivery and maintenance. It is a collaboration between Airbus and the Tata Consortium, with over 96% of man-hour work per aircraft to be undertaken in India.
Upon the completion of the 56 aircraft delivery to the IAF, Airbus will have the opportunity to sell aircraft manufactured in India to civil operators and export them to countries approved by the Indian government. The program not only reduces import dependence but also enhances India’s export potential in the aviation industry.
