India’s first locally built C-295 transport aircraft will roll out from Vadodara by September 2026. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) runs the final assembly line there with Airbus. Notably, it is India’s first private-sector line for military aircraft. The Indian Air Force will use the C-295 for tactical airlift. So, the project marks a big step in defence manufacturing.
The 56-Aircraft Deal
The Ministry of Defence signed the contract with Airbus Defence and Space on 24 September 2021. The deal is worth ₹21,935 crore. Under it, Airbus will supply 16 aircraft in flyaway condition from Seville, Spain. Meanwhile, TASL will build the remaining 40 aircraft in India. Also, these aircraft will replace the IAF’s ageing Avro HS-748 fleet.
Deliveries from Spain
The IAF received its first C-295 on 13 September 2023. After that, the Spanish-built aircraft arrived at about one per month. Finally, the last of the 16 arrived on 2 August 2025, ahead of schedule. So, the focus has now shifted to the Vadodara line.
The Vadodara Final Assembly Line
PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the Vadodara facility on 30 October 2022. Later, on 28 October 2024, he inaugurated it with Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez. TASL plans to deliver all 40 Indian-built aircraft between September 2026 and August 2031. In addition, the project draws many Indian MSMEs into the aerospace supply chain.
Latest Update
In May 2026, reports said the first Tata-built C-295 had entered final stages before rollout. Then, the aircraft made its maiden flight on 10 June 2026, as per available reports. Hence, the programme stayed ahead of its September 2026 timeline.
C-295 Transport Aircraft: Key Facts for Revision
- Contract: 24 September 2021, ₹21,935 crore
- Total aircraft: 56 (16 from Seville, 40 from Vadodara)
- Indian partner: Tata Advanced Systems Limited
- FAL inauguration: 28 October 2024, Vadodara, Gujarat
- Replaces: Avro HS-748 fleet
- Indian deliveries: September 2026 to August 2031
Why the C-295 Transport Aircraft Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, defence production questions often test partners and numbers. So, remember the 16-40 split, the contract date and the Vadodara site. Also, link the C-295 line with Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Defence. Next, for a related story, read about DRDO’s missile technology transfer to private industry.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.