India is set to mark a significant milestone in its aerospace industry with the rollout of the first locally assembled C295 military transport aircraft from the Vadodara facility in September 2026. This initiative, part of the “Make in India” campaign, represents a robust collaboration between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems. The facility was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, highlighting the deepening defense ties between India and Spain.
The Vadodara final assembly line (FAL) will produce over 85% of the C295 aircraft components domestically, excluding the engines. The project is expected to create approximately 10,000 jobs across the country, with 18,000 components being manufactured indigenously. PM Modi emphasized that the factory symbolizes the new work culture in India, showcasing the rapid progress in the country’s manufacturing capabilities. “Just two years ago, the construction of the factory had started, and now it is ready for aircraft production,” he stated.
During his visit, PM Sanchez noted that 40 aircraft would be assembled at the Vadodara facility, with 13,000 out of 40,000 detailed parts manufactured in India. This partnership is seen as a stepping stone for further technological collaboration, with Spain committing to technology transfer, enhancing India’s aerospace capabilities. The project has been described as a “new chapter” for Airbus in the Indian defense sector, with potential spill-over benefits for India’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
India has emerged as the largest customer for the C295 aircraft, with a total acquisition of 56 units. The contract entails that 40 units will be produced in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems at the new FAL, while 16 units will be delivered in ‘fly-away’ condition from Airbus’ assembly line in Seville, Spain. Six aircraft have already been delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Component production has already commenced in Hyderabad, and parts for the first C295 aircraft have been shipped to the Vadodara facility. The FAL will integrate various manufacturing processes, including tooling, sub-assemblies, and major component assemblies.
N Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, highlighted that the C295 project, originally conceived in 2012, aims to propel India into advanced manufacturing, fostering a sophisticated skills ecosystem and a robust supplier base. He committed to delivering the indigenously built aircraft exactly two years from the inauguration.
India is home to many grand auditoriums used for concerts, conferences, and cultural events. Among…
As the festival of Diwali approaches, recent updates have finally provided clarity on the exact…
The Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly is the law-making body for the state of Madhya Pradesh…
Four sandstone replicas of the iconic Konark wheel have been installed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan…
Despite the Delhi government’s “Pink Ticket” scheme enabling free bus travel for women since October…
Diwali 2024 bank holidays full list: The diverse traditions and customs in India lead to…