India has already ordered 71 Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft, and it is currently negotiating the purchase of an additional 10. This action is a component of a larger initiative to modernize the nation’s aging fleet, especially the Avro HS-748s, which have been in operation since 1961.
After a C-295 assembly line was established in Gujarat last year, the talks are thought to strengthen Airbus’ relationship with the TATA Group. India agreed to pay $2.52 billion for 56 C-295s for the Air Force in 2021, and then authorized a preliminary order for 15 more for the Coast Guard and Navy. According to reports, the Indian Air Force, which has high needs for transport capabilities, is the intended recipient of the extra aircraft.
The possible enlarged order
The Indian government is also thinking about placing more orders for the C-295; according to certain sources, they would like to order up to 75 more than the original 56. By 2031, the remaining C-295s will be manufactured in the Airbus-TATA factory in India, with the first 16 of the original order being assembled in Spain. Some of the new planes may still come from Spain if a quicker delivery is needed.
This program is in line with India’s overarching plan to increase domestic manufacture and independence in the defense sector, especially in light of China’s expanding military prowess.
