IAF acquires C-295 aircraft, takes delivery from Spain

NEW DELHI: The Air Force has acquired the C-295 passenger fighter aircraft, which has state-of-the-art facilities to transport personnel and weapons to the battlefield. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary received the first of the 56 aircraft under contract with Airbus Defense and Space at a ceremony in Seville, Spain. The C-295 is the Indian Air Force's first passenger combat aircraft capable of performing special missions, disaster rescue and maritime patrol duties.

The Air Force Chief accompanied Pilot Group Captain PS Negi on the maiden flight from Seville to Vadodara Air Base. The aircraft will officially become part of the force on September 25 at a ceremony at Hindon Air Base.

Max speed-482 kmph

Max load-9250 kg

40 aircrafts will be made by Tata in India

It will be of great use for IAF at Andaman and Nicobar Island community and across the China border

In medical evacuation missions, 24 stretchers and medical attendants can be carried.

Due to its small take off and landing, it can be used on temporary airstrips

It can carry 49 paratroopers or 71 soldiers.