IAF Takes Delivery of First C-295 Aircraft from Spain, Replacing Avro Aircraft
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday took delivery of the first of the 56 C-295 aircraft that will replace its ageing Avro-748 fleet.
The aircraft was handed over to the IAF by Airbus Defence and Space at its facility in Seville, Spain.
The C-295 is a medium transport aircraft that can carry up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers. It can also be used for medical evacuation, airdrop cargo, and firefighting.
The aircraft is equipped with a state-of-the-art avionics suite and can operate in harsh weather conditions.
The IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, was present at the ceremony in Seville to receive the aircraft.
He said that the C-295 is a “multi-role aircraft that will significantly enhance the IAF’s capabilities”.
The first 16 C-295 aircraft will be delivered to the IAF in fly-away condition from Spain.
The remaining 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India by Airbus in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL).
The first India-made C-295 is expected to roll out in September 2026.
The acquisition of the C-295 is part of the IAF’s plan to modernize its transport fleet. The Avro-748 fleet is over 50 years old and is nearing the end of its service life.
The C-295 will provide the IAF with a modern and capable transport aircraft that will meet its operational requirements for many years to come.
The delivery of the first C-295 is a significant milestone in the IAF’s modernization program. It also marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation between India and Spain in the defense sector.
