SOURCE: API
Airbus has announced that the first C295 aircraft destined for India has commenced testing of its self-protection equipment. Airbus shared a video on their Twitter account showcasing the aircraft’s jettison flares, which are integral to the self-protection system that enhances the aircraft’s survivability in combat situations.
This development comes after the first C295 aircraft for India successfully completed its maiden flight on May 5, marking a significant milestone in its journey towards delivery, expected in the second half of 2023. In September 2021, India had acquired a total of 56 C295 aircraft to replace the legacy AVRO fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Out of the 56 aircraft, the first 16 will be assembled in Seville, Spain, and delivered to India in a ‘fly-away’ condition. The remaining 40 aircraft will be manufactured and assembled in India by Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) as part of a robust industrial partnership between Airbus and TASL.
This programme will significantly contribute to developing the country’s military industrial ecosystem from the manufacturing to assembly, testing, to delivery and maintenance of the complete lifecycle of the aircraft.