C-295 Transport Aircraft Manufacturing Plant Inaugurated in India

Why in the news?

Prime Minister Modi and Spanish PM Sanchez inaugurated a C-295 aircraft manufacturing plant in Gujarat, enhancing the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and promoting indigenous defence production.

Introduction to C-295 Transport Aircraft:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated a manufacturing plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, for the C-295 aircraft, marking India’s first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft.
  • The C-295, originally produced by Airbus, was procured under a ₹21,935 crore deal signed in September 2021 to replace the Indian Air Force’s ageing Avro-748 fleet from the early 1960s.
  • The aircraft has a capacity of 5-10 tonnes, a maximum speed of 480 km/h, and features a rear ramp door for rapid troop and cargo deployment, enhancing the IAF’s air transport capabilities.

C-295 Transport Aircraft Manufacturing Plant Inaugurated in India

Significance for the Indian Air Force:

  • The C-295 will strengthen the IAF’s medium-lift tactical capabilities, addressing the limitations of the existing Soviet-origin An-32 aircraft, which are nearing retirement.
  • The IAF currently relies on the An-32 fleet for short-distance troop and supply transport, but with their ageing infrastructure, there’s an urgent need for more reliable alternatives.
  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that the C-295’s induction would enhance operational efficiency in transporting troops and materials across the country.

What is a C-295 MW Transporter:?

  • About: The C-295 is a tactical transport aircraft with a 5-10 tonne capacity, known for its robust and reliable performance.
  • Features:
    • Flight endurance of up to 11 hours.
    • Capable of multi-role operations in all weather conditions.
    • Operates day and night in diverse environments, from deserts to maritime settings.
    • Equipped with a rear ramp door for quick troop and cargo deployment.
    • Allows short take-offs and landings on semi-prepared surfaces.
  • Replacement: Will replace the Indian Air Force’s ageing Avro-748 fleet, which has a 6-tonne capacity.
  • Project Execution:
    • Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) will assemble 40 aircraft in India under the Make-in-India initiative.
    • Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft between September 2023 and August 2025.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times