Tata Advanced Systems Limited is likely to have rolled out the first “Made in India” C295 military transport aircraft from its final assembly line in Vadodara, according to reports and a viral video circulating on social media.
However, there has been no official confirmation yet from either Airbus or Tata.
The rollout is being seen as a major milestone under India's “Make in India” push in the defence manufacturing sector.
ALSO READ | ONGC, Oil India And Vedanta In Focus As India Cuts Onshore Crude Oil Royalty Rates
The C295 programme stems from a 2021 agreement between India and Spain for the procurement of 56 military transport aircraft at a cost of Rs 21,935 crore.
Under the deal,16 aircraft are being supplied in fly-away condition from Airbus' facility in Seville, Spain, while the remaining 40 are being manufactured and assembled in India at the Vadodara plant operated by Tata Advanced Systems Limited.
Reports suggest the aircraft rolled out this week from the final assembly line, with earlier indications that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could attend a formal rollout event.
The project is expected to significantly strengthen India's domestic aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
Around 70% of the aircraft components are reportedly being sourced locally, while the remaining systems, including engines from Pratt & Whitney, are being imported.
ALSO READ | CEA Nageswaran Says West Asia Crisis Is A Balance Of Payments Stress Test For India
The C295 is a versatile military transport aircraft capable of carrying troops, cargo, medical evacuation teams and surveillance equipment.
It can carry up to 9 tonnes of payload or 71 personnel and is designed to operate from short and unprepared airstrips.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.