New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set for a transformative upgrade with the introduction of the Airbus C-295, a new-generation medium tactical airlifter poised to replace the legacy Avro HS748 fleet that has been in service since the 1960s. This modern aircraft brings versatility and robust operational capabilities that enhance India’s logistical reach and tactical flexibility, especially in challenging environments.
The Airbus C-295 is a multi-role workhorse designed to handle diverse missions ranging from troop and cargo transport to medical evacuations, maritime patrols, and electronic signals intelligence (ELINT). Capable of carrying up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers, the aircraft is ideal for logistic operations, particularly to remote or semi-prepared airstrips that larger aircraft cannot access. Its Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) capabilities and reinforced landing gear make it highly suited for rugged terrains and high-stakes missions in austere conditions.
One of the key innovations in India’s C-295s is an advanced indigenous Electronic Warfare (EW) suite provided by Bharat Electronics Ltd. and Bharat Dynamics Ltd., further strengthening India’s self-reliant defense capabilities. The aircraft’s rear ramp door also allows rapid deployment of personnel and cargo, reinforcing its suitability for tactical missions that demand agility and speed.
The Airbus C-295’s versatility extends far beyond troop transport. The aircraft can be modified for various specialized roles, including VIP transport, water bombing for firefighting, and as an air-to-air refueling tanker. This adaptability makes the C-295 a strategic asset capable of supporting diverse defense and humanitarian missions.
A New Era in Indian Aviation Manufacturing: The C-295 Programme
In September 2021, India signed a landmark deal with Airbus Defence and Space SA, Spain, for ₹21,935 crore to procure 56 C-295 aircraft. The agreement aims to replace the Avro fleet while advancing India’s domestic aerospace manufacturing. Under the contract, the first 16 aircraft will be delivered fully assembled from Spain by August 2025, while the remaining 40 will be assembled in India at a new TASL (Tata Advanced Systems Ltd.) facility in Vadodara.
The Vadodara manufacturing plant will be India’s first private-sector aviation production complex, marking a milestone in breaking the monopoly of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) as the sole state-run aircraft manufacturer in India. This collaboration with Airbus will also bring high-tech manufacturing to India, as approximately 13,000 of the 14,000 parts required to build each aircraft will be produced locally, solidifying India’s place in global aerospace supply chains.
The first Made-in-India C-295 is anticipated by September 2026, marking a significant leap toward Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defense manufacturing. This program aligns with India’s goal of bolstering its defense capabilities while promoting local industry, making the C-295 not only a tactical asset but also a symbol of India’s growing manufacturing prowess.
