India has received the final batch of 16 C-295 military transport aircraft from Airbus, completing a major step in its airlift modernization program. The handover took place in Seville, Spain, in the presence of Indian Air Force officials and New Delhi’s ambassador.
The delivery was completed two months ahead of schedule, which officials hailed as a significant achievement for India’s defense preparedness. The acquisition stems from a 2021 contract with Airbus to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging Avro 748 fleet, originally introduced in the 1960s.
As per the agreement, Airbus is to supply 16 aircraft directly from Spain, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured in India to boost domestic defense production capabilities. The initiative supports India’s “Make in India” defense push.
In October 2024, Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus inaugurated a final assembly line in Vadodara, Gujarat, which will produce the remaining aircraft. The collaboration aims to strengthen India’s aerospace sector and reduce reliance on foreign imports.
