In a strategic and cultural ties with Spain, today Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President of Spain Mr. Pedro Sánchez inaugurated aircraft manufacturing unit in Vadodara, Gujarat. On the inauguration of TATA Aircraft Complex for manufacturing C-295 aircraft, PM Narendra Modi says, “This is my friend Pedro Sanchez’s first visit to India. From today, we are giving a new direction to India and Spain’s partnership. We are inaugurating the production factory of C-295 aircraft. This factory will strengthen India-Spain relations as well as ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ mission … ”
India and Spain have significantly enhanced their collaboration in aircraft manufacturing, particularly through the joint production of the Airbus C-295 transport aircraft. This partnership marks a pivotal advancement in India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to bolster indigenous manufacturing capabilities in the defense sector.
Key Developments:
Inauguration of Tata Aircraft Complex: On October 28, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated the Tata Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat. This facility, a collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus Defence and Space, is set to manufacture the C-295 aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Production Details: Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition from its final assembly line in Seville, Spain. The subsequent 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled by TASL in India. The first ‘Made in India’ C-295 is expected to roll out by September 2026.
Aircraft Capabilities: The C-295 is a versatile medium-lift tactical transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers. It can perform various roles, including medical evacuation, disaster response, and maritime patrol duties.
Significance of the Collaboration:
Strengthening Bilateral Relations: This joint venture not only deepens India-Spain relations but also aligns with India’s strategic goal to reduce dependence on foreign defense imports by fostering domestic manufacturing.
Boost to ‘Make in India’ Initiative: The project exemplifies the ‘Make in India’ mission by establishing the country’s first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft, thereby enhancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
Economic Impact: The establishment of the manufacturing facility is expected to create thousands of jobs and contribute to the development of an aviation hub in India, with potential future exports of the aircraft to other countries.
This collaboration between India and Spain in aircraft manufacturing signifies a strategic move towards self-reliance in defense technology and a strengthening of international partnerships.
