Spain PM Pedro Sanchez arrives to inaugurate India’s first private military aircraft facility
On Monday, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez arrived in Vadodara to join Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a historic inauguration. Together, they launched India’s first private military aircraft production facility—the Final Assembly Line for the C295 medium-lift tactical transport aircraft. This project, a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus Defence and Space, represents a significant step in India’s defense production capabilities.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to receive 56 C295 aircraft to replace its aging Avro fleet. Of these, Airbus will deliver the first 16 from its Seville facility in Spain. Meanwhile, TASL will manufacture the remaining 40 in Vadodara, making the facility a crucial hub for local aircraft production. The C295 aircraft, known for its versatility, can operate on short or unprepared runways, carrying up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers. Its design makes it ideal for tactical missions, further enhancing the IAF’s operational capabilities.
According to the plan, the Vadodara facility will deliver its first Made-in-India C295 by 2026, with the final, 56th aircraft expected by 2031. This timeline not only showcases the ambitious production goals but also highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense.
The new assembly line is a testament to India’s evolving defense manufacturing sector. For years, India relied heavily on imports to meet its defense needs. Now, with this project, India is set to become a production and maintenance base for military aircraft, creating numerous opportunities for skilled workers and generating economic growth in the region.
Additionally, this collaboration aligns with India’s broader “Make in India” initiative, designed to reduce dependency on foreign defense supplies and boost domestic manufacturing. By partnering with Airbus, India gains access to advanced aerospace technology, which will benefit local industries beyond the defense sector.
In sum, the inauguration of this facility underscores India’s commitment to becoming a global defense production powerhouse. As the Vadodara plant begins production, the IAF will soon have access to state-of-the-art aircraft tailored for Indian operations, enhancing the nation’s security and promoting technological growth.
