New Delhi: India is preparing to strengthen its airlift capabilities through a major defence procurement program. The IAF multirole transport aircraft tender has attracted global aerospace giants from Brazil, the United States and Russia, all competing to supply 60 new aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The proposal is expected to soon be reviewed by India’s top defence procurement body. The programme will not only modernise the IAF’s ageing transport fleet but also boost domestic defence manufacturing through large-scale production in India under strategic partnerships.
Details of IAF Multirole Transport Aircraft Tender
The Indian Air Force is planning to acquire 60 multirole transport aircraft under a large defence procurement programme aimed at improving logistics, troop movement and humanitarian operations.
According to defence officials, the proposal will soon be presented to the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), which is India’s highest decision-making body for military procurements.
If approved, the project will become one of the most significant air mobility upgrades for the Indian Air Force in recent years.
Transport aircraft are critical for:
- Moving troops and equipment across long distances
- Delivering supplies to remote or border areas
- Supporting disaster relief operations
- Conducting humanitarian evacuation missions
Brazil, US and Russia Among Top Contenders
Three major global aerospace manufacturers are expected to compete for the IAF multirole transport aircraft tender.
The leading contenders include:
Brazil
Brazilian aerospace company Embraer is expected to participate in the bid. The company is partnering with Mahindra Defence to manufacture aircraft in India if selected.
United States
American defence giant Lockheed Martin is another strong contender. It has already partnered with Tata Group for potential production and technology collaboration.
Russia
Russia’s aircraft manufacturer Ilyushin is also expected to compete. The Russian side may partner with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for local production in India.
These partnerships reflect India’s push to combine global defence technology with domestic manufacturing.
IAF Multirole Transport Aircraft Tender: Majority of Aircraft to Be Built in India
A key feature of the programme is the “Make in India” defence manufacturing model.
Officials say:
- Around 20% of the aircraft will be delivered in fly-away condition.
- The remaining 80% will be manufactured in India.
- The aircraft produced domestically will include over 60% indigenous content.
The aircraft will be produced through joint ventures between Indian companies and international manufacturers, helping India build advanced aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
This approach will also create:
- Skilled jobs
- New supply chains
- Indigenous defence technology capabilities
Why the IAF Needs New Transport Aircraft
The Indian Air Force is modernising its transport fleet as several aircraft are aging.
Many current transport aircraft are approaching the end of their service life.
New aircraft will help the IAF:
- Replace older logistics aircraft
- Improve heavy cargo transport capacity
- Support military operations in high-altitude regions such as Ladakh
- Enhance rapid deployment capability
A modern transport fleet is also essential for India’s expanding military and humanitarian missions.
Existing Transport Aircraft in the IAF Fleet
The Indian Air Force already operates several types of transport aircraft.
For example:
- The IAF currently operates 12 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, which are used for special operations and tactical airlift missions.
India is also working with Airbus to induct C-295 transport aircraft, with around 70 aircraft planned for induction, most of which will be manufactured in India.
These programmes show India’s growing focus on building transport aircraft domestically.
Importance of IAF Multirole Transport Aircraft Tender
The upcoming tender is expected to become a major boost for India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Key strategic benefits include:
- Strengthening India’s defence self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat)
- Expanding domestic aerospace manufacturing capability
- Enhancing technology transfer from global defence companies
- Positioning India as a regional hub for aircraft manufacturing and maintenance
If implemented successfully, the project could significantly transform India’s military aviation supply chain.
