Airbus C-295 Manufacturing in India: Tata Aircraft Complex Inauguration by PM Modi

On October 28, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez jointly inaugurated the Tata Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat. This momentous occasion marks India’s entry into private-sector military aircraft manufacturing with the Airbus C-295, a versatile medium transport aircraft set to boost the nation's defense production capabilities.

Significance of Tata Aircraft Complex

The new Tata Aircraft Complex (TAC) is India's first private-sector Final Assembly Line (FAL) for military aircraft. This facility is dedicated to assembling Airbus C-295 aircraft, the first of which is expected to roll out in 2026. India has an order of 56 C-295 aircraft for the Indian Air Force, with Airbus delivering the first 16 and the remaining 40 manufactured locally by Tata Advanced Systems Limited.

Why the C-295 Project is Historic

This collaboration between Airbus and Tata represents a historic leap for India’s defense sector. The TAC facility will not only handle the assembly but also oversee testing, delivery, and lifecycle maintenance. This ecosystem enables India to gain expertise in aircraft production, ensuring self-reliance in defense.

Technical Specifications of Airbus C-295

The C-295 is highly adaptable and designed for a wide range of missions. Key features include:

• Payload Capacity: Up to 9 tons or 71 troops
• Range: Up to 4,500 kilometers
• Cruise Speed: 481.52 km/h
• Operational Altitude: Up to 30,000 feet

The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney turboprop engines and can execute transport, medical evacuation, maritime patrol, and even air-to-air refueling missions.

Advantages of Manufacturing the C-295 in India

1. Boost to Indian Defense: Establishing the TAC will significantly improve India’s defense self-sufficiency, reducing dependency on foreign imports.
2. Job Creation: This facility is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs within the Indian aerospace sector.
3. Knowledge Transfer: Tata’s partnership with Airbus will ensure advanced aerospace technology transfer, enhancing local skill development.

The Inaugural Ceremony

PM Modi and PM Sanchez celebrated this collaboration with a 2.5-kilometer roadshow in Vadodara, symbolizing strong Indo-Spanish relations. Following the inauguration, the leaders are scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting at the iconic Lakshmi Vilas Palace.

Why the C-295 Program is Historic for India

Today’s inauguration represents not only a milestone for India’s aerospace sector but also showcases India’s capability to support a full-scale, indigenous military aircraft assembly. With a diverse mission capability, the C-295 will enhance India’s tactical response and logistical support capabilities, underscoring the significance of local manufacturing.

The Tata Aircraft Complex inauguration aligns with India's defense modernization goals, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem that bolsters both national security and economic growth.

Conclusion

The launch of the Tata Aircraft Complex marks a new era for India’s defense sector. The production of Airbus C-295 aircraft domestically is a testament to India's evolving aerospace industry, with plans for full delivery by 2031.