Vadodra: In a landmark event showcasing the “Make in India” vision, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez inaugurated the Tata-Airbus C-295 aircraft assembly facility in Vadodara, Gujarat. This joint venture, led by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL) and Airbus Defence and Space, marks a significant boost for India’s defense manufacturing sector and enhances the country’s self-reliance in military aviation.
The facility is set to manufacture C-295 tactical transport aircraft, designed for versatile operations, including troop and cargo transportation, humanitarian missions, and medical evacuations. Under this collaboration, Tata will produce 40 out of a total of 56 C-295 aircraft, with the first completed model expected in 2026. The project represents India’s first private-sector-led military aircraft production and is anticipated to create around 25,000 jobs, bolstering the local economy and generating highly skilled employment opportunities.
Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez’s visit, his first official tour to India, also focuses on deepening bilateral ties across sectors such as defense, renewable energy, and technology. Sanchez emphasized Spain’s commitment to supporting India’s strategic goals, both regionally and globally, with collaborative initiatives like this. Following the inauguration, Modi and Sanchez engaged in discussions to further expand economic and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
This milestone inauguration reaffirms India’s evolving role in global defense manufacturing. As part of the Indian Air Force’s fleet modernization, the C-295 will replace the aging Avro aircraft, enhancing the IAF’s operational capabilities. With growing collaboration between India and Spain, the event symbolizes the strengthening strategic partnership and shared commitment to defense innovation.
