Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken delivery of the first of 56 C295 aircraft in a significant move to replace its ageing Avro-748 fleet.
- The C295, a versatile tactical transport aircraft, is set to revolutionize India’s military aircraft manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
C295 Aircraft Features:
- The C295 aircraft, designed by Airbus, is a versatile tactical transport capable of various missions, including troop and cargo transport, maritime patrol, surveillance, reconnaissance, close air support, medical evacuation, VIP transport, and firefighting.
- It can carry up to nine tonnes of payload or 71 personnel at a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots. The aircraft can operate from unpaved, soft, and sandy/grassy airstrips and has a cruising altitude of up to 30,000 feet.
Indigenous Production: While major components such as engines and avionics are sourced from the US, Airbus will transfer manufacturing technology to TASL for most other components.
- This is intended to achieve 95% indigenous production within a few years. The aircraft will feature indigenous radar warning receivers, missile approach warning systems developed by Bharat Electronics Limited, and a countermeasure dispensing system provided by Bharat Dynamics Limited.
