An important milestone was reached when the Indian Air Force (IAF) was presented with its first C-295 cargo aircraft at a ceremony in Seville, Spain. With a first order for 56 aircraft, the C-295 fleet of the IAF is expected to grow to be the largest in the world.
About C-295
- The payload capacity of the C-295MW transport aircraft ranges from 5 to 10 tonnes.
- It offers a lot of flexibility because it can hold up to 71 troops or 49 parachutists.
- The aircraft’s 260-knot maximum cruising speed ensures prompt deployment.
- Even at modest speeds as low as 110 knots, its remarkable low-level flight characteristics make tactical missions possible.
- The C-295 has a rear ramp door that makes quick troop and cargo deployments possible.
- An indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite created by Bharat Electronics Ltd. and Bharat Dynamics Limited is installed on each aircraft.
- The plane is powered by two PW127G turboprop engines made by Pratt & Whitney Canada.
- The C-295 may use airstrips that aren’t ready because of its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability.
Significance of the aircraft
- India will join a small club of countries that can produce C-295 aircraft as a result of its entry into the aircraft manufacturing industry.
- The US, UK, Russia, France, Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Brazil, China, and Japan are among the nations that make up this group.
- As a result of the project, a large number of MSMEs throughout India will be involved in the production of aeroplane components.
- This includes key strategic locales like the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago and the China border.
