Daily Current Affairs : 20-July-2023
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to mark a significant milestone with the impending arrival of the first C-295 transport aircraft. The C-295, manufactured by Airbus, represents a new-generation tactical airlifter that boasts impressive capabilities for multi-role operations across various weather conditions. The aircraft’s acquisition is part of India’s ambitious plan to become self-reliant in the aviation sector, with a manufacturing plant established in Vadodara, Gujarat. This essay delves into the features of the C-295, the C-295 India program, and its implications for India’s aviation prowess.
The Airbus C295: A Versatile Tactical Airlifter
The C-295 stands as a testament to Airbus’ engineering prowess, designed as a modern tactical airlifter that excels in a wide range of operational roles. Some notable features of the C-295 include:
- All-Weather Operations: The aircraft is engineered to perform efficiently in various weather conditions, making it a reliable asset for the Indian Air Force’s diverse mission requirements.
- Enhanced Payload Capacity: Equipped with winglets, the C-295 can transport heavier payloads over longer distances, making it an ideal choice for critical missions even in hot and high-altitude regions.
- Multi-Role Capability: The C-295’s versatility allows it to fulfill multiple roles, such as troop transport, cargo delivery, medical evacuation, and humanitarian aid missions, making it a valuable addition to the IAF’s fleet.
C-295 India Program: A Landmark Deal for Self-Reliance
In September 2021, the Indian Ministry of Defence finalized a groundbreaking deal worth ₹22,000 crores with Airbus and Space S.A., Spain, for the procurement of 56 C-295 MW transport aircraft. This program serves to replace the aging Avro aircraft currently in service with the IAF. Key aspects of the C-295 India program include:
- Fly Away and Indigenous Manufacturing: The contract stipulates that 16 aircraft will be delivered in a fly-away condition, directly manufactured at the Airbus facility in Seville, Spain. The remaining 40 aircraft will be produced in India through a joint effort by Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in Vadodara, Gujarat.
- Boost to India’s Aerospace Industry: The establishment of the C295 manufacturing plant in Vadodara marks a significant step towards enhancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities. This move aligns with the government’s vision of self-reliance and indigenous production in the defense sector.
- Strengthening India’s Defense Capabilities: The induction of the C-295 aircraft will substantially enhance the IAF’s operational capabilities. With its modern features and versatile applications, the C-295 is expected to bolster India’s defense preparedness and ensure efficient logistics support in various strategic operations.
Implications
The upcoming arrival of the first C-295 transport aircraft heralds a new era for the Indian Air Force and the country’s aviation sector as a whole. By opting for the C-295, India has invested in a modern, adaptable, and reliable platform that will serve various critical missions. The indigenous manufacturing aspect of the program not only contributes to self-reliance but also creates employment opportunities and technology transfer, fostering the growth of the domestic aerospace industry.
Important Points:
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is soon to receive the first C-295 transport aircraft, manufactured by Airbus, marking a significant milestone for India’s aviation sector.
- The C-295 is a new-generation tactical airlifter capable of conducting multi-role operations under all weather conditions.
- Equipped with winglets, it can transport more payload over longer distances, making it suitable for hot and high-altitude regions.
- The establishment of a C295 aircraft manufacturing plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, represents India’s effort to become self-reliant in the aviation sector.
- In September 2021, the Defence Ministry signed a ₹22,000-crore deal with Airbus and Space S.A., Spain, for the procurement of 56 C-295 MW transport aircraft.
- The deal includes 16 aircraft in fly-away condition from Airbus’ facility in Spain, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured in India by Airbus in collaboration with TASL.
- The C-295 program aims to replace the aging Avro aircraft in service with the IAF, enhancing the Air Force’s operational capabilities.
- The aircraft’s versatility allows it to perform various roles, including troop transport, cargo delivery, medical evacuation, and humanitarian aid missions.
- The C295 manufacturing plant in Vadodara contributes to India’s vision of self-reliance and indigenous production in the defense sector.
- The program is expected to boost India’s aerospace industry, creating employment opportunities and fostering technology transfer.
- India’s decision to opt for the C-295 showcases the country’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and achieving technological advancements on a global scale.
- The C-295 program represents a significant step towards India’s ambition to be a key player in the global aerospace landscape and opens possibilities for exporting indigenous aircraft in the future.
Why In News
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is eagerly anticipating the imminent delivery of its first C-295 transport aircraft, heralding a new era of enhanced capabilities and strategic airlift capacity. This cutting-edge addition to their fleet is expected to bolster the IAF’s operational readiness and strengthen their ability to undertake critical missions across the region.
MCQs about The C-295 Transport Aircraft Program
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What is the primary purpose of the C-295 transport aircraft acquired by the Indian Air Force (IAF)?
A. Airlifting passengers only
B. Conducting multi-role operations under various weather conditions
C. Operating in low-altitude regions
D. Supporting naval operations
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How many C-295 transport aircraft will be manufactured in India as part of the C-295 India program?
A. 10
B. 16
C. 40
D. 56
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Which Indian state houses the C295 aircraft manufacturing plant, a significant step towards self-reliance in the aviation sector?
A. Bengaluru, Karnataka
B. Hyderabad, Telangana
C. Vadodara, Gujarat
D. Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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What advantage does the C-295 have over traditional aircraft, especially in hot and high-altitude regions?
A. It has better stealth capabilities
B. It can carry more payload over longer distances
C. It requires a shorter runway for takeoff and landing
D. It has a longer operational range
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