IAF needs 15 Squadrons of Light Medium category Transport Aircraft

The Indian Air Force (IAF) needs at least 15 squadrons of transport aircraft in Light Medium category ie with load capacity of 5 tons to 10 Tons. This has been well brought out in a book Nabhah Deeptam Sparsham, writes by an Army Officer.

 In fact IAF is operating around five squadrons of HS 478 Avros and nine Squadrons of An32 s which fall in this category, a total of 168 aircrafts. The HS 748 Avros are already being replaced by C295 aircrafts. The first three aircrafts out of 16 to be built in Spain have already arrived and around 40 will be built in India.

Now IAF seems to be keen fir the acquisition of additional 109 Airbus C-295 aircraft to replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era Antonov AN-32 transport aircraft. This is essential part of the modernization effort aimed at enhancing the IAF’s operational capabilities. In fact this will act as a Force Multiplier in a two front war scenario.

The TATA Advanced Systems Limited in collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space, Spain have already commenced production of the Make in India C295, the first of which should be handed over to the IAF by Vadodra Plant in Sep2026.This will mark a significant milestone in the IAF’s modernization efforts.

As the AN-32 fleet ages, the IAF plans to begin retiring these aircraft starting in 2030. The C-295 is the most viable replacement option, with its production line already set up in Vadodra and will continue until around 2032 for the initial orderof 40 aircrafts. Approximately 108 AN-32 aircraft, were originally inducted between 1984 and 1991. The decision to phase out the AN-32s is partly due to stalled upgrade programs in Ukraine, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions affecting parts supply.

The IAF’s interest in the C-295 may even extend beyond the order if 108 asAn32 replacement. The versatility of the C-295 makes it suitable for various roles, including tactical transport, aerial delivery, casualty evacuation and even as Medium Range Maritime patrol aircraft. Additionally, the IAF is exploring further enhancements and variants of the C-295 to meet its operational needs.

We already have Dorniers 228 to be likely followed by indigenous Saras Mk2 in Light Transport Category. So C295 can fill the Light Medium category giving us ample time to design own indigenous 5 to 10 ton Category transporter.