New Delhi has launched the procurement process for 60 Multi-Role Transport Aircraft intended to modernize the Indian Air Force’s transport fleet. The acquisition is estimated at around 1 trillion rupees ($10.4 billion).The programme is primarily aimed at replacing the aging An-32 fleet and strengthening the IAF’s airlift capability between light tactical transports and heavy strategic airlifters.The proposed aircraft are expected to fall within the 18–30 tonne payload category and must be capable of operating from demanding airfields, including high-altitude and semi-prepared landing grounds in Ladakh and northeastern India.The aircraft will have multiple roles, including troop and cargo transport, airborne supply missions, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance, and potentially aerial refueling.Among the aircraft likely to attract attention are the C-130J Super Hercules from Lockheed Martin and KC-390 Millennium from Embraer. The C-130J offers approximately 19 tonnes of payload capacity, while the KC-390 can carry about 26 tonnes. Airbus’ A400M is a larger aircraft with a payload of roughly 37 tonnes and may therefore be outside the desired category.Under the Make in India model, the first aircraft would be supplied in ready-to-operate form, with later aircraft assembled or manufactured domestically. Indigenous content is expected to begin at approximately 40 percent and gradually increase to 60 percent.Indian industrial participants could include Tata Advanced Systems, Mahindra Defence, Adani Defence, Reliance Defence, and HAL. The successful bidder will also be expected to establish a domestic final-assembly line and long-term MRO facilities, helping create a permanent aerospace manufacturing and support ecosystem in India.
