New Delhi – In a decisive move to enhance India’s maritime vigilance and rapid response capabilities, the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are preparing to induct the Made-in-India C295 transport aircraft. This forms a critical component of the broader defence modernisation strategy aimed at boosting aerial coverage across coastal and island territories.
Procurement in Final Stages, Delivery Timeline Set
The decision follows the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) in March 2024 for 15 maritime-configured C295 aircraft—nine for the Navy and six for the Coast Guard. The deadline for commercial bid submissions has been set for December 2025. The acquisition has already received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
These C295s are set to plug a long-standing operational void between the long-range Boeing P-8I Poseidon and the short-range Dornier Do-228 aircraft. The Navy’s fleet is expected to be armed with anti-ship missiles, sonobuoys, torpedoes, and advanced surveillance systems for layered maritime dominance. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard’s six aircraft will adopt multi-role configurations, supporting diverse missions such as search and rescue, coastal security, and maritime intelligence gathering.
Built for India’s Unique Terrain and Threat Profile
With its short take-off and landing capability—even on semi-prepared airstrips—the C295 is uniquely suited for India’s island territories, remote airfields, and coastal strips. Its 11-hour endurance and ability to operate under austere conditions makes it a natural fit for both peacetime operations and wartime contingencies, including HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief).
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Indigenous Manufacturing Boosts Self-Reliance
The aircraft’s entry into naval and coast guard service builds upon the Indian Air Force’s ongoing C295 induction, which stems from a 2021 deal for 56 aircraft. Of these, 15 have already been delivered from Spain, while the remaining 40 are under production at Tata’s facility in Vadodara. The first fully Made-in-India unit is expected to roll out by late 2026, marking a milestone for domestic defence production under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
Versatile and Combat-Ready Aircraft
The C295 is designed for both tactical lift and special missions. It can carry up to 70 troops or 50 paratroopers with a payload of 10 tonnes. It features a rear ramp for air drops and medevac, has a cruising speed of 480 km/h, and requires only 670 metres for take-off and 320 metres for landing. Its adaptability makes it indispensable for troop transport, forward-area resupply, casualty evacuation, and coastal surveillance missions.
The inclusion of C295 aircraft across the Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force will significantly improve interoperability among India’s armed services. As legacy platforms like the Avro, AN-32, and IL-76 approach the end of their operational life, the C295 is expected to become the backbone of India’s tactical and maritime aerial operations—ushering in a new era of agility, readiness, and indigenous strength.
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