Number of Made In India C-295 Aircraft need to be expanded
The C-295 aircraft, is a light medium tactical transport aircraft manufactured by Airbus, with standard payload capacity of 7 tons and maximum of 9.250 tons.
It can transport up to 73 troops or 48 paratroopers, and is designed for versatile roles including logistics, medical evacuation ( 27 stretcher with four Nursing personnel ) and has aerial delivery capabilities.
The maximum range with 7 ton payload is 1555 km. The maximum range with maximum fuel is 4587 km but payload gets reduced to just 2.940 tons. The range with maximum payload of 9.2 tons is 1277km.
Maximum cruise speed is around 260 knots (approximately 482 km/h).The aircraft has many notable specifications and capabilities that enhance its operational effectiveness.
Recently, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has begun integrating this aircraft into its fleet, with six aircrafts already operating, marking a significant advancement in India’s military aviation capabilities.
The aircraft has successfully logged over 100 flying hours since its introduction into service with IAF, demonstrating its reliability and performance in real-world Conditions india entered into a contract with Airbus for the procurement of 56 C-295 aircraft, with the first unit delivered in September 2023. 16 aircrafts are to be delivered by Airbus facilities in Spain itself.
The manufacturing facility established in Vadodara by TATA Advanced Systems Ltd will produce 40 of these aircraft locally, enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The facility is notable as it is the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India, expected to support not just assembly but also maintenance and upgrades throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle.
The C-295’s combination of capacity, performance, and advanced technology positions it as a critical asset for the IAF.
Its integration into India’s defence framework signifies a step forward in enhancing operational readiness and capability across diverse mission profiles.
The new facility is expected to generate thousands of jobs and support the manufacturing of 18, 000 aircraft parts, providing opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across India.
PM Modi expressed confidence that this facility will not only contribute to military needs but also pave the way for producing civil aircraft, further establishing India as an aviation hub.
The TATA Aircraft Complex is poised to transform the landscape of India’s defence manufacturing by entering aircraft production. The establishment of this facility introduces competition and diversifies production capabilities within the private sector.
The project is expected to generate approximately 600 direct jobs and over 6, 000 indirect jobs. This includes roles across various skill levels, contributing significantly to local employment and skill development within the aerospace sector.
Out of the 14, 000 parts required for each C-295 aircraft, around 13, 000 will be manufactured in India. This shift is crucial for reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and enhancing local capabilities.
The indigenous content is expected to increase from 48% for the initial aircraft to about 75% for later units.
It has also been more or less confirmed that 15 more C295 has been ordered over and above the 56. However out of this 13 will come from Spain on priority and two will be manufactured in Baroda.
These aircrafts will be for Medium Range Maritime Recce for both Navy ( 9 aircrafts ) and Coast Guard ( 6 aircrafts). In fact another 27 will be required to provide a MRMR Squadron each to each of the Naval Commands including A& N Command.The aim should now be to increase the indigenization process to above 90 %.
As it we need to replace our 9 Squadrons of An 32 (around 108 aircrafts) sooner then later and definitely from mid 2030’s. C295 manufactured in India with over 90 % indigenization will be the most suitable aircraft for this purpose.
Once this is finalized then while manufacturing 175 aircrafts, India will have ample time to design, test and manufacture its own Medium Transport aircraft in 20-25 payload category.
