India is in discussions to procure up to 10 more Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft beyond its previously planned order of 71, as part of efforts to modernize its transport fleet, according to a report by Reuters.
The potential order follows India's 2021 agreement with Airbus and Tata Group for 56 C-295 aircraft valued at $2.52 billion. In 2023, an initial approval was granted for 15 additional aircraft for the navy and coast guard. If finalized, the latest expansion could bring the total number of C-295s ordered to 81.
A source indicated that the additional aircraft are intended for the Indian Air Force, which is replacing its ageing Avro HS-748 transport fleet. The C-295 is designed to carry up to 70 troops or eight tonnes of cargo and can support various missions, including surveillance and reconnaissance.
The first 16 aircraft from the 2021 order are being manufactured in Spain, while the remaining units are set to be assembled at an Airbus-Tata facility in Gujarat by 2031. The latest order could be fulfilled entirely from the Gujarat plant, though faster delivery may require sourcing some aircraft from Spain, according to the Reuters report.
India has been increasing domestic production in the defence sector while continuing to be one of the world’s largest importers of military equipment.
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