In a significant milestone for India’s aerospace industry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, inaugurated the country’s first private military transport aircraft production plant. Located at Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in Vadodara, this new facility will manufacture Airbus C295 aircraft, marking India’s growing self-reliance in defence and aviation.
The C295 aircraft, designed to enhance the Indian Air Force’s tactical airlift capabilities, will replace the ageing Antonov An-32 and Avro 748 fleet. With its ability to operate from short, unpaved runways, the C295 is ideal for challenging terrains, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and maritime borders.
The project is a major boost to the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. Out of 56 aircraft, Airbus will deliver 16 in fly-away condition from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be assembled in India, with the first ‘Made in India’ C295 expected by 2026.
Beyond strengthening national defence, the project will generate over 3,000 direct jobs and support more than 15,000 indirect jobs across the supply chain. It will also stimulate the growth of local aerospace infrastructure and training facilities, including those in Prayagraj and Agra.
This initiative positions India as a future exporter of aircraft, reinforcing its status as a global aerospace hub. After fulfilling domestic needs, the C295 project will explore international markets, aligning with the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision.
The C295 plant inauguration symbolizes India’s journey toward aerospace excellence and defence self-reliance.
