August 6, 2025 — India has received the 16th and final C-295MW military transport aircraft from Airbus Defence and Space, Spain, completing the foreign delivery phase of a major ₹21,935 crore defense deal signed in 2021. The contract, involving 56 aircraft in total, is aimed at replacing the Indian Air Force’s aging Avro-748 fleet.
The final aircraft was delivered ahead of schedule, underscoring strong coordination between Airbus and the Indian Ministry of Defence. The C-295MW, a versatile twin-turboprop tactical transport aircraft, is capable of carrying 71 troops or 50 paratroopers and operating in high-altitude and short-runway conditions — features critical for India’s diverse operational needs.
With the delivery of the last Spanish-manufactured aircraft, the focus now shifts to indigenous production. The remaining 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) at a new final assembly line in Vadodara, Gujarat. This will be the first time a military aircraft is being built in India by a private sector company.
“The successful completion of the foreign deliveries marks the beginning of a new phase in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities,” a senior IAF official said. “The Vadodara facility is central to our vision of creating a self-reliant aerospace ecosystem.”
The Tata-Airbus joint project is a key part of the government’s “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which promote indigenous defense production. The Vadodara plant is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. Deliveries of India-assembled aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2031.
The program is expected to generate over 15,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly, and will contribute significantly to local sourcing and skill development. Airbus has also committed to establishing a comprehensive support ecosystem in India, including maintenance, training, and spare parts supply.
Defense analysts view the project as a transformative step for India’s defense industry. “This partnership places India on the map as a future exporter of military transport aircraft. The C-295 program could open the door to similar collaborations in fighter jets, helicopters, and UAVs,” said a defense expert based in New Delhi.
The aircraft’s short takeoff and landing capabilities make it particularly useful for border operations, especially in the Northeast and the Himalayan region. Its ability to operate from semi-prepared runways adds flexibility to the IAF’s logistical and tactical missions.
As India transitions from buyer to builder, the C-295 program is being closely watched as a benchmark for future defense manufacturing projects under private-sector leadership.
With domestic production about to begin, India is set to become not only self-sufficient in this category of military aircraft but also a potential regional hub for aerospace exports.
