Vadodara: Vadodara is set to emerge as a major aerospace manufacturing centre as Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) is likely to roll out the first C-295 military transport aircraft from its assembly line later this year. According to sources, the first C-295 aircraft assembled at the Vadodara facility is expected to be ready by September this year.

The state-of-the-art assembly line has been established under an agreement between the Government of India and Airbus Defence and Space, with Tata Advanced Systems as the Indian production partner. The project marks the first time that a military aircraft will be manufactured in India by a private company, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

Initially, aircraft parts manufactured by Airbus will be assembled at the Vadodara plant. Over time, the level of indigenisation is expected to increase, with Indian suppliers contributing a growing share of components. The facility will not only assemble the aircraft but will also serve as a centre for testing, integration, and future maintenance support.

The C-295 is a versatile medium tactical transport aircraft designed for logistics, troop transport, medical evacuation, and special missions. The Indian Air Force plans to induct these aircraft to replace its ageing Avro fleet, significantly enhancing operational capability. DeshGujarat