Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus Launch India’s First Private Military Aircraft Assembly Line in Gujarat
Vadodara, Gujarat — In a landmark development for India’s defense manufacturing sector, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) has partnered with Airbus to inaugurate the country’s first private sector Final Assembly Line (FAL) for military aircraft in Vadodara. The facility, dedicated to producing the C295 aircraft, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez, marking a significant step towards enhancing India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
The foundation stone for this ambitious project was laid in October 2022, following a substantial deal signed between India and Airbus Defence and Space in September 2021. The agreement, valued at ₹21,935 crore, involves the procurement of 56 C295 aircraft to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging Avro-748 planes, which have been in service since the 1960s. The first 16 C295s will be delivered in ‘fly-away’ condition from Airbus’ assembly line in Seville, Spain, within four years, while TASL will manufacture the remaining 40 aircraft in India.
The first of the 16 aircraft was delivered to the Indian Air Force on September 13, 2023, in Spain, with plans for the first indigenous C295 to be ready by September 2026 and the remaining 39 by August 2031. Upon completion of these deliveries, Airbus will hold the rights to sell the aircraft manufactured in India to civil operators and for export to countries cleared by the Government of India.
The C295MW, with a maximum speed of 480 km/h, is designed for versatility, boasting a transport capacity of 5 to 10 tonnes. It features a rear ramp door for quick troop and cargo deployment, making it ideal for rapid reaction forces and para-dropping operations. The aircraft’s cabin measures 12.7 meters (41 feet 8 inches), providing the longest unobstructed space in its class, capable of accommodating up to 71 seats. The design allows for more cargo to be carried compared to its competitors, enhancing operational efficiency.
Significantly, the indigenous electronic warfare suite for all 56 aircraft will be developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited, ensuring that the highest level of indigenous content in Indian defense manufacturing is achieved. Former defense secretary Ajay Kumar noted that 96% of the work required to produce the C295 in Spain will now be undertaken at the new Vadodara facility, highlighting the project’s commitment to local manufacturing.
The C295 has a proven track record, having operated in diverse environments—from the Brazilian jungles and Colombian mountains to the deserts of Algeria and the cold climates of Poland. It has also participated in military operations in Chad, Iraq, and Afghanistan, underscoring its capability to conduct logistical missions from main airfields to forward operating bases. With the ability to operate on short, unprepared airstrips as short as 2,200 feet, the C295 can fly low-level tactical missions and perform medical evacuations, disaster response, and maritime patrol duties.
This collaboration between TASL and Airbus is set to significantly boost India’s defense manufacturing sector, aligning with the government’s push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) while enhancing the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities.
