Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish counterpart Pedro Sánchez inaugurated India's first private military aircraft manufacturing facility in Vadodara, a landmark move aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative. Focused on assembling Airbus C-295 aircraft, the facility aims to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities. With a deal valued at ₹21,935 crore, it signals a shift towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing, creating an aerospace ecosystem, generating jobs, and positioning India as a regional aircraft servicing hub.
India's skies witnessed a historic moment as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Spanish counterpart Pedro Sánchez, inaugurated the country's premier private military aircraft manufacturing facility in Vadodara. This grand opening not only signifies a significant milestone but also heralds a new era in India's defense production landscape.
Aligned with the 'Make in India' initiative, this facility marks a pivotal shift towards bolstering self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Its core focus lies on assembling the Airbus C-295 aircraft, set to revolutionize the Indian Air Force's capabilities while fostering indigenous manufacturing expertise.
Anticipated to commence operations by November this year, the facility aims to unveil the first locally manufactured C-295 by September 2026. The deal, valued at approximately ₹21,935 crore (around $2.5 billion), involves procuring 56 aircraft to replace the aging Avro-748 fleet currently in service.
The significance of the C-295 deal extends beyond mere acquisitions. It symbolizes the establishment of a comprehensive aerospace ecosystem within India, encompassing the entire aircraft lifecycle—from production and assembly to testing, delivery, and maintenance. This integrated approach not only ensures advanced military aircraft production but also fortifies operational readiness for the Indian Air Force.
Moreover, the C-295's versatility as a medium tactical transport aircraft promises enhanced air transport capabilities for varied missions, ranging from troop transport to medical evacuation and maritime patrol. Its adaptability to operate from short and unpaved runways renders it ideal for diverse operational environments.
Under this groundbreaking deal, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) is set to manufacture 40 aircraft in India, marking a historic milestone in private entity involvement in military aircraft production. The deal's 30% offset requirement ensures Airbus invests back into the Indian economy, fostering local industries and encouraging deeper engagement with foreign companies.
This initiative is forecasted to generate around 15,000 high-skilled jobs and an additional 10,000 indirect jobs, bolstering India's aerospace supply chain through collaboration with over 125 domestic Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The C-295 deal not only reinforces the 'Make in India' initiative but also accentuates India's defense capabilities and economic growth prospects. With technology transfer agreements in place and plans for establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, India is positioning itself as a regional hub for aircraft servicing.
During the ceremony, PM Modi highlighted the facility's pivotal role in fortifying India's defense capabilities and self-reliance, emphasizing the significance of private sector participation in driving innovation and efficiency in the defense sector.
Expressing optimism about the facility's potential, PM Modi envisioned a future where aircraft manufactured here would be exported, paving the way for 'Made in India' civil aircraft. He underscored the transformative impact this initiative will have on India's aviation sector, positioning the country as a global player in aerospace manufacturing.
PM Modi's vision resonates with India's strategic objectives of enhancing national security through indigenous capabilities, reinforcing the government's commitment to empowering local industries and advancing technological prowess within the nation.
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