India-Spain Defense Ties Soar: C-295 Rollout Looms for Vadodara Factory.

During a bilateral meeting, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored strong ties with Spain. The talks in New Delhi with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares focused on global cooperation. Key areas included combating terrorism and boosting economic partnerships. The ministers also highlighted growing defence industrial collaboration.

C-295 Production Milestone Nears

The Airbus-Tata C-295 project is a major focus. Minister Jaishankar noted the Vadodara Final Assembly Line (FAL) progress. This facility was jointly inaugurated in October 2024. It represents a significant milestone for India's aerospace sector.

The first 'Made in India' C-295 aircraft is expected soon. The rollout is scheduled before September 2026. This timeline aligns with the broader manufacturing schedule.

The Airbus-Tata Partnership

This project stems from a 2021 contract. India acquired 56 C-295 tactical transport aircraft. The deal is valued at approximately $2.5 billion. It aims to replace the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) aging Avro fleet.

• 16 aircraft were delivered in flyaway condition from Airbus's Seville, Spain, facility.
• The remaining 40 aircraft will be manufactured in India.

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) is the local partner. The Vadodara FAL is India’s first private sector military aircraft assembly line. This demonstrates a commitment to building resilient manufacturing capabilities. The initiative supports India's 'Make in India' vision. It also significantly advances the 'AatmaNirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) program.

Impact on Aerospace and Defence

The C-295 is a versatile turboprop aircraft. It has a 5-10 tonne payload capacity. It can operate from short or semi-prepared runways. This capability is crucial for India’s northern and northeastern regions.

The collaboration is expected to create jobs. Estimates suggest 15,000 direct and 10,000 indirect skilled positions. This boosts the entire domestic aerospace ecosystem. The final aircraft will feature indigenous Electronic Warfare Suites. This further enhances local defense production expertise.

Minister Jaishankar also highlighted broader ties. Bilateral trade between India and Spain exceeds $8 billion. The nations are celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. This includes a Dual Year of Culture, Tourism, and Artificial Intelligence. The defence partnership remains a key pillar of this growing relationship.

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