- The Indian Air Force (IAF) received its first C-295 cargo aircraft during a ceremony in Seville, Spain, marking a key milestone.
- With an initial order for 56 aircraft, the IAF’s fleet of C-295s is projected to become the world’s largest.
About C-295
- The C-295MW is a transport plane with a payload capacity of 5 to 10 tonnes.
- It can hold up to 71 people or 49 para-troopers, giving it a lot of versatility.
- The aircraft has a top cruise speed of 260 knots, allowing for quick deployment.
- Its remarkable low-level flight qualities allow it to conduct tactical missions at speeds as low as 110 knots.
- The C-295 has a rear ramp door that allows for quick troop and cargo deployments.
- Each aircraft is outfitted with a Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited-developed indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite.
- The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines.
- The C-295 is capable of short take-off and landing (STOL), allowing it to use unprepared airstrips.
The aircraft’s importance
- India’s entry into aircraft production will place it among a select group of countries capable of producing C-295 aircraft.
- This group includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Brazil, China, and Japan.
- The project will boost India’s aerospace ecosystem by incorporating a large number of MSMEs from throughout the country in the production of aeroplane components.
- This includes crucial places like the border with China and the Andaman & Nicobar archipelago.
Source: https://m.timesofindia.com/india/c-295-transport-plane-all-you-need-to-know-about-iafs-newest-addition-to-its-transport-fleet/articleshow/103612267.cms