India has achieved a major milestone in defence manufacturing as the first Made-in-India C-295 military transport aircraft successfully completed its maiden test flight at the Tata-Airbus final assembly line in Vadodara, Gujarat. The achievement marks a significant step in the country's efforts to strengthen indigenous aerospace and defence production under the Make in India initiative.
Partnership and Production Plan
The C-295 programme is being executed through a partnership between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Airbus Defence. Under a Rs 21,935 crore contract signed in 2021, 16 aircraft are being supplied from Spain while 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India. The aircraft is expected to replace the ageing Avro-748 fleet of the Indian Air Force and enhance its tactical airlift capabilities.
Strategic Importance
This indigenous production not only boosts self-reliance in defence but also creates a robust aerospace ecosystem in India. The C-295 is a versatile tactical transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers, and can operate from short or unprepared runways. The successful maiden flight validates the capabilities of the Indian manufacturing team and sets the stage for future deliveries to the Indian Air Force.
With this achievement, India joins a select group of nations capable of manufacturing military transport aircraft domestically, reinforcing its position as a growing hub for aerospace and defence production.
