Modi and Sanchez to Inaugurate Tata-Airbus Factory in Vadodara
Vadodara, India – Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez are set to inaugurate the Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL)-Airbus factory in Vadodara on October 28. The leaders will also engage in a bilateral meeting during their visit, according to an official release from the Gujarat government.
The factory, dedicated to the manufacturing of C-295 transport aircraft, marks a significant milestone in India’s defense aviation sector and aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative aimed at fostering indigenous aircraft production. The foundation stone for this ambitious project was laid by Prime Minister Modi on October 30, 2022.
“This project will produce transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force, heralding a new era in aviation within the defense sector,” the government announcement stated. It also emphasized the importance of the upcoming bilateral discussions between Modi and Sanchez.
In a historic agreement forged in September 2021, India finalized a deal worth approximately ₹21,000 crore with Airbus Defence and Space for the procurement of 56 C-295 aircraft. This initiative is particularly significant as it represents the first instance of a private firm in India taking on the manufacturing of military aircraft. As stipulated in the deal, Airbus will deliver the first 16 aircraft in ‘fly-away’ condition from its assembly line in Seville, Spain, within four years, while the remaining 40 aircraft will be produced and assembled by TASL in India.
Preparations are in full swing by the Vadodara Municipal Corporation to ensure a successful visit for both Prime Ministers. The inauguration is set to underscore the strengthening ties between India and Spain, particularly in the defense sector.
