The initial Airbus C295 military transport aircraft manufactured in India finished its first test flight from the Final Assembly Line in Vadodara, Gujarat. This marks a significant achievement for India’s defense manufacturing goals and the growth of a domestic aerospace production ecosystem. The aircraft is the first of 40 C295 transport planes to be produced in India under the Airbus-Tata partnership.
Airbus Defence and Space stated that the successful flight is a crucial step in the post-production testing process, bringing the program closer to delivering the first Indian-manufactured C295 to the Indian Air Force later this year. Describing the flight as a milestone for Indian aviation and defense, Airbus emphasized that this program is the first instance of a military aircraft being made in India by the private sector.
Acknowledging the progress made, Airbus thanked the Indian Air Force, the Ministry of Defence, and the Central government for their support and confidence in the program. This collaboration is seen as instrumental in shaping the future of India’s aerospace industry. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel praised the development as a proud milestone for Gujarat and India, highlighting the significance of the successful maiden test flight of the first “Made in India” Airbus C295 military transport aircraft from Vadodara.
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi also expressed pride in this achievement, calling it a significant moment for India. He emphasized that the successful flight of the aircraft assembled in Vadodara signifies a historic event. The C295 program is a key defense manufacturing initiative in India, aiming to enhance indigenous production capabilities and reduce reliance on imported military equipment. The Vadodara facility, a result of the Airbus-Tata partnership, acts as the final assembly line for aircraft destined for the Indian Air Force as part of a substantial fleet modernization plan.
The successful test flight is anticipated to be followed by further evaluation and certification activities before the aircraft is put into service. The first Indian-built C295 is set for delivery later this year.
