Tata Aircraft Complex Vadodara inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, is set to unveil the Tata Aircraft Complex in Vadodara on October 28, marking a pivotal step in Indias defence production. This new venture signifies the inauguration of the nations first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft, a milestone aimed at boosting Indias self-reliance in defence manufacturing.A collaboration between TASL, AirbusThe facility, a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus, will produce the C-295 transport aircraft, which was procured under a 2021 contract with the Indian Air Force (IAF) valued at ₹21,935 crore. This strategic acquisition involves the production of 56 C-295s, with 16 delivered in flyaway condition by Airbus and the remaining 40 assembled at the Vadodara facility.“This project represents the full development of an integrated ecosystem, encompassing manufacturing, assembly, testing, qualification, delivery, and lifecycle maintenance,” the Prime Ministers Office stated on Saturday. The Vadodara facility aims to support the entire lifecycle of the C-295, positioning it as a key contributor to Indias Indigenous Defence Industrial Ecosystem.Replacement for decade-old transport aircraftThe C-295, a tactical airlifter, is designed to strengthen the IAFs logistical capabilities, particularly in forward areas near contentious borders. Replacing the decades-old Avro transport aircraft, the C-295 provides India with advanced logistics support essential for modern defence.Supporting this mission, government and private sector collaborations include key public sector undertakings like Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), which will supply indigenous electronic warfare systems for the aircraft.The project extends beyond the C-295, as Airbus Helicopters and TASL have planned production facilities for the H125 civil helicopter in India, with the first chopper expected to roll out in 2026.
