New Delhi, June 2026: The first Airbus C295 military transport aircraft manufactured in India has successfully completed its maiden test flight from the Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) facility in Vadodara, Gujarat. The development marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen domestic aerospace manufacturing under the government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
The foundation for the project was laid in September 2021 when the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹21,935-crore agreement with Airbus Defence and Space for the procurement of 56 C295 transport aircraft to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging Avro-748 fleet.
Under the agreement, 16 aircraft are being delivered in fly-away condition from Airbus facilities in Spain, while the remaining 40 aircraft are scheduled to be manufactured and assembled in India by TASL at its Vadodara facility.
The aircraft that completed the recent test flight is the first from the batch being produced domestically. It is expected to undergo further evaluations and certification processes before induction into service.
Capabilities of the C295
The Airbus C295 is a medium tactical transport aircraft designed for a variety of military and humanitarian missions. Key capabilities include:
- Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) operations from semi-prepared airstrips
- Cargo carrying capacity of up to nine tonnes
- Transport of military personnel and paratroopers
- Medical evacuation and disaster-relief missions
- Maritime surveillance and special operations support
According to project details, India-manufactured aircraft will also incorporate domestically developed systems, including electronic warfare equipment supplied by Indian defence companies.
Domestic Manufacturing Ecosystem
The project involves participation from multiple Indian companies and suppliers. Aircraft components are being sourced and manufactured across various industrial centres, while major structural assemblies are being integrated before final assembly in Vadodara.
Officials and industry representatives have stated that the programme is expected to contribute to the development of India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and generate employment opportunities across the supply chain.
Future Outlook
The C295 programme is considered an important step in expanding India’s indigenous defence production ecosystem. Government and industry stakeholders have indicated that the experience gained through the project could support future aerospace and defence manufacturing initiatives in the country.
The successful test flight represents progress toward domestic production of military transport aircraft and reflects ongoing efforts to enhance self-reliance in the defence sector.
