IAF moves ahead to buy 60 new transport aircraft
The Indian Air Force is moving ahead with a plan to buy 60 new medium transport aircraft after a major approval on March 2.
The DPB clearance will move the proposal to the Defence Acquisition Council for Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) before tendering and contract award.
Out of the 60 planes, 12 will arrive ready-to-fly and the other 48 will be built in India—so it's a big step for local manufacturing too.
Global giants in the race for this deal
Three global giants are in the race: Embraer (C-390 Millennium), Lockheed Martin (C-130J Super Hercules), and Airbus (A400M).
Each offers different payload capacities and features.
Notably, Lockheed's C-130J is already flying with the IAF, while Embraer has teamed up with Mahindra Group and Lockheed is working with Tata Advanced Systems to bring production and support jobs to India.
Focus on local manufacturing and support
These new aircraft will replace older An-32s and are expected to take on some roles currently performed by Il-76s, helping modernize the IAF fleet.
The focus isn't just on buying planes—it's about building them here, boosting tech skills, jobs, and self-reliance for India's future.