Talks underway to expand current order as India boosts local aircraft production
India is in advanced discussions to acquire 10 additional Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft, increasing its planned procurement beyond the 71 already approved, as part of efforts to modernize its ageing Air Force fleet.
The Indian Air Force’s growing transport needs are driving plans to expand the Airbus C-295 order.
According to three sources familiar with the matter, the Indian government is negotiating to add 10 more C-295 aircraft to the 2024 order. This would be in addition to the 56 planes ordered in 2021 under a $2.52 billion deal and the 15 aircraft approved last year for the navy and coast guard.
The C-295 is a versatile transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 70 troops or eight tonnes of cargo and can also perform airborne warning, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
With the latest negotiations, the Indian Air Force could soon become the largest global operator of the C-295, especially as India shifts towards indigenous production through the Airbus-Tata partnership.
Boost for Local Production and Defence Modernization
Sixteen of the 56 C-295s from the initial order will be manufactured at Airbus’ facility in Spain, while the rest will be assembled at the Airbus-Tata plant in Gujarat by 2031.
The new batch of aircraft may be produced entirely in India unless faster delivery is required, which could mean sourcing some from Spain
The acquisition is part of a broader plan to replace India’s ageing Avro HS-748 fleet, which has been in service since 1961. Defence expert Laxman Behera from Jawaharlal Nehru University noted that the Air Force has significant transport requirements, emphasizing the need for rapid modernization.
Future Expansion Likely as Air Force Needs Grow
One industry source suggested that India could eventually order up to 75 additional C-295 aircraft beyond the original 56 to meet rising operational demands. This comes amid growing concerns over delayed fighter jet deliveries from state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), prompting calls for increased production speed and greater private-sector involvement.
The expanded C-295 order is seen as a crucial step in strengthening India’s defence capabilities and reinforcing its commitment to indigenous manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.
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