Context:

Recently, the Prime Minister of India and his Spanish counterpart inaugurated the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant for the C295 medium-lift tactical transport aircraft in Vadodara, Gujarat.

More on the news

• This facility is India’s first private military transport aircraft production plant, a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus Defence and Space (Airbus DS).
• As part of the first ‘Make in India’ aerospace program in the private sector, India will acquire 56 C295 aircraft to replace the Indian Air Force’s legacy Avro fleet. 
• Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in fly-away condition from its FAL in Seville, Spain, while TASL will manufacture and assemble the remaining 40 aircraft at the Vadodara facility.

About C295 Aircraft

• It is a transport aircraft with a capacity of 5 to 10 tonnes, with a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots.
• It has a maximum speed of 480 km/h.
• Refueling Capability: Equipped for air-to-air refueling of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

Features:

• Rear ramp door for quick troop and cargo deployment.
• Capable of short take-off and landing from semi-prepared surfaces.

Cabin Dimensions:

• Length: 12.7 meters (41 feet, 8 inches).
• Longest unobstructed cabin in its class, accommodating up to 71 seats.
• Can carry more cargo than competitors, with direct off-loading through the rear ramp.

Indigenous Features:

• All 56 aircraft will include an electronic warfare suite developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited.
• High level of indigenous content:  The indigenous content in the plane will be the highest ever in India, with 96% of the work that Airbus does in Spain to produce the plane will be done at the manufacturing unit in Vadodara.

The C295 can perform multiple roles, including:

• Carrying troops and supplies from main airfields to forward operating bases.
• Capable of operating from short unprepared airstrips as short as 2,200 feet.
• Conducting tactical missions at low speeds of 110 knots.
• Used for casualty or medical evacuation.
• Suitable for various special operations.
• Engaging in disaster relief efforts.
• Conducting maritime surveillance duties.

Significance of the C295 Facility

• Job Creation and Skill Development: The facility will generate numerous jobs and enhance technical skills among Indian workers, contributing to a more skilled workforce in high-tech manufacturing.
• Boosting Defense Exports: With India's defense exports having increased 30 times over the past decade and now reaching over 100 countries, the facility will further strengthen India's position in the global defense market.
• Global Defense Production Hub: The complex signifies India's emergence as a prominent player in global defense production, enhancing the country's strategic capabilities.
• Contribution to Civil Aviation: The facility is expected to contribute to civil aircraft manufacturing, addressing both domestic needs and opportunities in international markets.