Airbus Defence and Space (Airbus DS) has teamed up with Tata Advanced Systems to produce the C-295 medium-lift tactical transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Under this agreement, Tata Advanced Systems has been designated as the Indian Production Agency (IPA) by Airbus DS. Tata will manufacture 40 of the 56 C-295 aircraft at its facilities in India, while the remaining 16 will be supplied directly from Spain. Tata will also provide long-term maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) support for all 56 aircraft.
Inauguration of the C-295 Facility in Vadodara
The new C-295 production facility in Vadodara, Gujarat, was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. This facility, located at the Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) campus, aims to boost India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The Spanish PM’s visit marks a milestone in India-Spain cooperation in defense production.
India’s Ambitious Defence Manufacturing Goals
This project is one of India’s most ambitious defense initiatives and represents the first time the private sector will manufacture a military aircraft in India, challenging the longstanding dominance of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) in defense manufacturing. Tata Advanced Systems, along with other partners like Bharat Electronics Ltd., Bharat Dynamics Ltd., and various private MSMEs, will create an entire ecosystem for military aircraft production in India.
A Boost for India’s Defense Capabilities
The new facility is expected to significantly enhance India’s defense capabilities by providing locally produced aircraft to replace the IAF’s aging HS-748 Avro fleet. The fully integrated facility will handle everything from manufacturing and assembly to testing, delivery, and maintenance. This project aligns with India’s goal of becoming a global hub for defense manufacturing.
PM Modi’s Gujarat Visit and Further Development Projects
Following the inauguration, PM Modi will visit the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara and later travel to Amreli to inaugurate the Bharat Mata Sarovar. Additionally, he will lay the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹4,800 crore in the region, emphasizing India’s commitment to growth and modernization.
