India has significantly enhanced its defence capabilities with the recent acquisition of the final Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft from Spain, marking a pivotal moment for the Indian Air Force.

This state-of-the-art C-295 aircraft, boasting a 5-10 tonne capacity and equipped with contemporary technology, is poised to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging Avro fleet. Its advanced features promise improved tactical transport and operational efficiency.

The final delivery, notably two months ahead of schedule, occurred at the Airbus Defence and Space assembly line in Seville. Dignitaries, including Indian Ambassador to Spain Dinesh K Patnaik and senior Indian Air Force officials, were present to receive the vital asset.

This expedited delivery underscores the strategic importance of the C-295 program for India’s national security framework. It represents a commitment to modernizing the Indian Air Force and bolstering its aerial logistics infrastructure.

The acquisition is part of a broader contract signed in September 2021 between India and Airbus Defence & Space, Spain, for a total of 56 C-295MW transport aircraft. This comprehensive agreement highlights a long-term vision for defence modernization.

Of the 56 aircraft, 16 were directly supplied by Airbus from Spain. Crucially, the remaining 40 C-295 aircraft are slated for indigenous manufacturing within India, promoting self-reliance in defence production.

The foundation for this domestic production was laid in October last year when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Spanish counterpart, Pedro Sanchez, jointly inaugurated the TATA Aircraft Complex at the TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) Campus in Vadodara, Gujarat.

With a flight endurance of up to 11 hours, the C-295 is recognized as a versatile and efficient tactical transport aircraft. Its integration is expected to significantly augment the operational readiness and strategic airlift capabilities of the Indian armed forces for years to come.