Delhi: Tata Advanced Systems Limited is expected to achieve a major milestone as the India-built Airbus C-295 is likely to undertake its first flight soon from its manufacturing facility in Vadodara. The aircraft is being manufactured under the Government of India’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives aimed at strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
The development marks a significant shift in India’s defence aviation sector, which has traditionally depended on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for military aircraft production. Recently, a video of the aircraft circulated widely on social media, triggering speculation that the aircraft was ready for delivery to the Indian Air Force. The visit of Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor to the TASL facility further intensified discussions, although there has been no official confirmation regarding the aircraft’s maiden flight.
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The C-295 aircraft is intended to replace the ageing Avro-748 fleet that has been serving the Indian Air Force for nearly six decades. Known for its versatility, the aircraft can transport up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers and is capable of operating in difficult terrains inaccessible to heavier transport aircraft. Apart from tactical transport, the aircraft can also be used for medical evacuation, cargo operations, maritime patrol and surveillance missions.
The Ministry of Defence had signed a Rs 21,935-crore deal with Airbus Defence and Space for the procurement of 56 C-295 aircraft. While 16 aircraft are being delivered directly from Spain, the remaining 40 are being manufactured in India by TASL. Officials have stated that nearly 13,000 of the 14,000 parts used in each aircraft will be manufactured in India, significantly boosting the country’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
