Here’s a detailed overview of India’s acquisition and manufacturing plans for the C-295 aircraft in partnership with Airbus and Tata:
Background and Need for C-295 Aircraft:
India’s Air Force has been using Avro-748 aircraft since 1961. These aircraft, due to aging and lack of modern capabilities, were due for replacement. Recognizing the need for advanced, multi-role transport aircraft, India signed an agreement with Airbus Defence and Space in September 2021 to acquire and manufacture C-295 aircraft.
India-Airbus Agreement:
In September 2021, India signed a deal worth approximately INR 21,935 crore (around $3 billion) with Airbus to procure 56 C-295 transport aircraft. Under this contract, Airbus will directly supply the first 16 aircraft, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured in India by Tata, marking a historic shift towards indigenous production of military transport aircraft.
C-295 Aircraft Production Facility:
To support indigenous manufacturing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for Tata’s aircraft manufacturing plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, in 2022. This facility, which is a first for India’s private sector in military aircraft production, will produce and maintain the C-295 aircraft. Tata and Airbus bring their respective expertise in manufacturing and technology to make India self-reliant in aviation manufacturing.
Technical Features and Capabilities of the C-295 Aircraft:
Engine and Power:
- The C-295 aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines.
- These engines offer high performance and endurance, making the C-295 suitable for long-haul missions.
Performance Features:
- The C-295 can reach speeds of up to 260 knots and has Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities.
- It has an operational range of up to 11 hours, allowing it to serve on extended missions.
- The aircraft has a cargo capacity of 5 to 10 tons and can transport up to 71 troops in a single flight.
All-Weather Performance:
- The C-295 is designed to operate efficiently in various environments, from high altitudes to desert and maritime conditions.
- It can operate in extreme weather, making it suitable for combat and peacekeeping missions, even at night.
Operational Uses:
- Military Transport: Primarily designed for the transport of troops and cargo, it can also be used for maritime patrol, surveillance, intelligence, signals intelligence, medical evacuation, and VIP transport.
- Disaster Relief: During natural disasters, it can be deployed for search, rescue, and relief missions.
- Cargo Deployment: A rear ramp door allows for easy cargo drops by parachute, essential for remote or difficult terrains.
Advanced Safety and Security Features:
- Modern Defense Systems: The aircraft is equipped with cockpit armor, shaft/flare dispensers, radar, missile, and laser warning systems, providing enhanced protection in combat zones.
- Reconfigurable Design: The C-295 can be quickly adapted for various missions, making it a versatile choice for the military.
Production Timeline and Delivery to India:
Tata’s production facility in Vadodara is expected to deliver its first C-295 aircraft to the Indian Air Force by 2026, with the remaining 39 aircraft to be handed over by 2031.
Cost Efficiency and Comparisons:
While being technologically advanced, the C-295 has comparatively lower operating and maintenance costs than other transport aircraft. Its cost-effectiveness makes it an excellent choice for the Indian military’s logistical and combat needs.
Strategic Benefits for India’s Defense Sector:
- Self-Reliance: The Airbus-Tata partnership significantly boosts India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing, supporting the broader vision of “Make in India.”
- Government Support: This initiative receives strong backing from the Indian government, with Prime Minister Modi emphasizing the importance of indigenous manufacturing.
Broader Impact:
The C-295 project is expected to revolutionize India’s air transport capabilities, marking a substantial step towards advanced manufacturing in the defense sector while also strengthening India’s military logistics and operational readiness.
Conclusion:
Equipped with state-of-the-art features and operational versatility, the C-295 will enhance the Indian Air Force’s efficiency in transport, relief, and combat missions across varied environments.
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