The C-295 is a versatile, medium tactical transport aircraft designed by the Spanish company CASA (Construcciones Aeronáuticas SA), now part of Airbus Defence and Space. It is widely used for military and civilian applications, offering flexibility in varied operational scenarios.
Key Specifications
- Role: Tactical airlift, medical evacuation, maritime patrol, and surveillance.
- Capacity:
- Passengers: Up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers.
- Payload: Up to 9,250 kg (20,400 lbs).
- Can carry vehicles, cargo pallets, or a combination of passengers and cargo.
- Range:
- Maximum range: ~4,500 km (2,800 miles) with reduced payload.
- Engines:
- Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines.
- Speed:
- Maximum speed: ~480 km/h (300 mph).
- Takeoff and Landing:
- Can operate from short and unpaved airstrips.
- Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities make it ideal for remote and austere locations.
Design Features
- Robust Airframe:
- Designed for high performance in challenging conditions, such as extreme climates and rugged terrains.
- Avionics:
- Equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems.
- Includes military-standard avionics for missions like surveillance and electronic warfare.
- Versatility:
- Configurable for different missions, such as troop transport, airdrops, VIP transport, medical evacuation, and maritime patrol.
- Operational Flexibility:
- Compatible with NATO-standard logistics and equipment.
Applications
- Military Operations:
- Tactical transport of troops and equipment.
- Airdrops and paratrooper missions.
- Medical evacuation and humanitarian aid.
- Civil and Disaster Relief:
- Search and rescue (SAR) missions.
- Disaster relief in remote areas.
- Specialized Missions:
- Maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering.
- Electronic warfare and signals intelligence.
Global Operators
The C-295 is in service with multiple nations, including:
- India: Recently procured 56 C-295 aircraft to replace the aging Avro HS 748 fleet.
- Spain, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Poland, and others use it for diverse missions.
Advantages
- Cost-Effectiveness:
- Lower operational and maintenance costs compared to similar aircraft.
- Adaptability:
- Can operate in various environments, from deserts to mountainous regions.
- Reliable Performance:
- Proven track record in over 35 countries.
Significance for India
The C-295 is set to bolster the Indian Air Force’s transport capabilities:
- Make in India: The first 16 aircraft will be delivered by Airbus, while the remaining 40 will be manufactured domestically by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in collaboration with Airbus.
- Modernization:
- Will replace the aging Avro HS 748 fleet.
- Enhance tactical airlift and disaster response efficiency.
- Strategic Edge:
- Boost indigenous aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
- Strengthen the Indian military’s logistics network.
The Airbus C-295’s versatility, efficiency, and adaptability make it a critical asset for modern military and civilian operations worldwide.
