by Staff Correspondent
IADB: Big step towards modernization of IAF transport fleet, 5-10 tonnes capacity aircraft equipped with contemporary technology Airbus to also purchase eligible products & services directly from Indian Offset Partners Unique opportunity for domestic private sector to enter into technology intensive aviation industry. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with M/s Airbus Defence and Space, Spain for acquisition of 56 C-295MW transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, on September 24, 2021.
The MoD has also signed an Offset Contract with M/s Airbus Defence and Space through which M/s Airbus will discharge its offset obligations through direct purchase of eligible products and services from Indian Offset Partners. These contracts were signed following the approval accorded by the Cabinet Committee on Security recently.
The induction of C-295MW will be a significant step towards modernization of the working horses of the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is a transport aircraft of 5-10 tonne capacity with contemporary technology that will replace the ageing Avro transport aircraft of IAF. The aircraft can operate from semi-prepared strips and has a rear ramp door for quick reaction and para dropping of troops & cargo. The aircraft will give a major boost to the tactical airlift capability of IAF, especially in the Northern and North-Eastern sector and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The project will provide a major boost to the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ of the Government that offers a unique opportunity for the Indian private sector to enter into technology intensive and highly competitive aviation industry. Out of 56, forty aircraft will be manufactured in India by TATA Consortium. All the deliveries will be completed within ten years of signing of the contract. All 56 aircraft will be installed with indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite. After completion of the delivery, the subsequent aircraft manufactured in India can be exported to countries which are cleared by the Government of India. The project will give a boost to the aerospace ecosystem in India wherein several MSMEs spread over the country will be involved in manufacturing parts of the aircraft. The program will also involve development of specialised infrastructure in the form of hangars, buildings, aprons and taxiways.
This programme is a unique initiative of the Government to strengthen the indigenous capabilities and envisaged to boost the ‘Make in India’ programme.
MoD signs contract with Airbus Defence & Space, Spain for acquisition of transport aircrafts for IAF
