Collaboration between Tata, Airbus and DRDO.

Collaboration between Tata advanced, Airbus and DRDO. 

The collaboration between Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), Airbus, and the DRDO is transforming Indias aerospace sector through the C295 aircraft program. As of January 2026, the project has achieved several major milestones in manufacturing and specialized mission development. 

Manufacturing and Infrastructure

Tata Aircraft Complex: In October 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez inaugurated the TATA Aircraft Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat. This is India's first private sector Final Assembly Line (FAL) for military aircraft.

Production Status: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received all 16 fly-away aircraft from Spain as of late 2025. The first "Made in India" C295 from the Vadodara facility is scheduled for rollout in September 2026.

Indigenization: Tata is responsible for manufacturing 40 aircraft, with indigenous content set to reach 75% for the final 24 units. Over 13,000 detailed parts are being produced in India. 

DRDO Role in Specialized Variants

The DRDO is leading the development of advanced mission versions of the C295 for maritime security. 

Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMMA): Developed for the Indian Coast Guard with advanced sensors for surveillance and Search & Rescue (SAR).

Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR): Designed for the Indian Navy, featuring submarine detection capabilities and maritime electronic intelligence.

Sensor Integration: DRDO Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) is the nodal agency for designing the mission systems, including surface-scanning radars and electro-optic sensors. 

Key Specifications of the C295

Payload: 9.5 tonnes, capable of carrying up to 71 personnel.

Endurance: Flight endurance of up to 11 hours.

Mission Roles: Tactical transport, cargo dropping, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and maritime patrol.

Replacement: The C295 fleet is replacing the IAF aging Avro-748 aircraft, which have been in service for over six decades. 

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