Prime Minister Modi and Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez to Inaugurate Tata Aircraft Complex in Vadodara
On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, will inaugurate the Tata Advanced Systems Ltd’s (TASL) final assembly line facility for the C295 aircraft in Vadodara, Gujarat. This facility marks a significant step in India’s defense manufacturing sector.
Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor’s Insights
Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor (Retd) shared that by 2030, the indigenous component of the C295 aircraft will increase to 78%. This will enhance the Indian Air Force’s capabilities by reducing dependency on external agencies for services and parts.
Details of the C295 Aircraft Deal
The agreement, signed in September 2021 with Airbus, involves replacing the HS 748 Avro aircraft with 56 C295 aircraft. Sixteen will arrive ready to fly, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured in India. Six aircraft have already been delivered, with the rest expected by mid-next year.
Features of the C295 Aircraft
The C295 can carry 50 paratroopers, 72 troops, and lift 7.5 tons of cargo. It features a ramp for easy loading and unloading, making it superior to the AN32 aircraft. It is suitable for para assault landings, short field landings, high altitude operations, and rescue missions.
Impact on India’s Defense Industry
The Tata facility will be the first private sector Final Assembly Line for military aircraft in India, involving a complete ecosystem from manufacturing to maintenance. It will include contributions from Bharat Electronics Ltd., Bharat Dynamics Ltd., and various private enterprises.
Doubts Revealed
Tata Aircraft Complex -: The Tata Aircraft Complex is a facility where airplanes are built. It is owned by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd, a company in India that makes things for airplanes and other technology.
Vadodara -: Vadodara is a city in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is known for its rich history and culture, and now it will also be known for having a facility that builds airplanes.
C295 aircraft -: The C295 is a type of airplane that can carry soldiers and goods. It is useful for the military because it can take off and land on short runways and has a ramp for easy loading and unloading.
Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor (Retd) -: Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor is a retired high-ranking officer from the Indian Air Force. He has a lot of experience and knowledge about airplanes and military operations.
Indigenous component -: Indigenous component means parts or materials that are made in India. By 2030, 78% of the parts used in the C295 aircraft will be made in India, which is good for the country’s economy and self-reliance.
Airbus -: Airbus is a big company that makes airplanes. They are working with Tata to build the C295 aircraft in India.
Private military aircraft assembly line -: A private military aircraft assembly line is a place where military airplanes are built by a private company, not by the government. This is the first time such a facility is being set up in India.