The Airbus C295 will provide the Indian Air Force with a reliable and versatile platform that can operate in a wide range of missions and environments.
Airbus Defence and Space has successfully completed the maiden flight of the first C295 aircraft for India. The tactical aircraft, which took off from Seville, Spain, on May 5th, completed a three-hour flight before landing safely. The successful flight marks a significant milestone towards the delivery of the first C295 aircraft to India in the second half of 2023. India’s acquisition of the C295 aircraft is part of the country’s efforts to modernize its military and improve its operational capabilities. The C295 will provide the Indian Air Force with a reliable and versatile platform that can operate in a wide range of missions and environments.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) acquired 56 C295 aircraft in September 2021 to replace its legacy AVRO fleet. The first 16 aircraft will be assembled in Seville, Spain, and delivered to the customer in ‘fly-away’ condition. The remaining 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled by Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) in India as part of an industrial partnership between the two companies. The C295 programme will help India develop its military industrial ecosystem, from manufacturing and assembly to testing, delivery, and maintenance of the complete lifecycle of the aircraft.
“This first flight represents a significant accomplishment for the first Make in India aerospace programme. With the Indian Air Force set to become the largest operator of the C295 in the world, this programme exemplifies our commitment to improving the Indian Air Force operational capabilities,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Military Air Systems, Airbus Defence and Space.
The C295 is an unmatched aircraft in its weight and mission class, with a total of 281 orders from 39 operators. Its capabilities include search and rescue, maritime patrol, and transport missions, among others. The aircraft is well-suited for the rugged terrain and climatic conditions of India, making it an ideal choice for the Indian Air Force.
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Overall, the successful maiden flight of the first C295 aircraft for India marks a significant achievement in the Make in India aerospace programme. The partnership between Airbus Defence and Space and Tata Advanced Systems will help India develop its military industrial ecosystem, enhance its operational capabilities, and provide its armed forces with a reliable and versatile platform for a wide range of missions.
