New Delhi, September 21 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance its transport capabilities with plans to purchase 60 medium transport aircraft. This initiative comes as the Ministry of Defence aims to replace aging Soviet-era Antonov AN-32 planes.
According to a report published in the Vietnam Times, this program, valued at approximately ₹1 lakh crore, will modernize the IAF’s airlift capacity while also promoting domestic aerospace manufacturing.
The new aircraft will have a payload capacity ranging from 18 to 30 tons, surpassing the capabilities of the current AN-32 fleet. This upgrade will provide the IAF with increased operational flexibility.
The proposed plan includes acquiring 60 aircraft, with 12 delivered in flyaway condition and the remaining 48 manufactured in India. The project is expected to utilize a high level of indigenous materials, thereby reinforcing the aviation manufacturing ecosystem in the country.
Modern military transport aircraft, such as the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules already in service with the IAF, are capable of transporting troops and military equipment, conducting air drops, and supporting various military operations. The extended C-130J-30 version has a maximum payload capacity of around 20 tons.
Additionally, Brazil’s Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft is being considered as a potential candidate for this program. This next-generation military transport jet has a maximum payload capacity of 26 tons.
The C-390’s versatility extends beyond military logistics; it can also facilitate troop and cargo transport, medical evacuations, search and rescue missions, firefighting, and humanitarian assistance. Notably, it can operate on temporary or unpaved runways.
The C-390 has gained international recognition, with several NATO member countries adopting it, making it a leading option among medium-range military transport aircraft.
This project holds significant industrial importance for India. Embraer has partnered with Mahindra Defence for this initiative, which includes plans for developing manufacturing and maintenance facilities in India.
The program’s significance is heightened by India’s geographical challenges. The northern and northeastern borders are considered some of the most demanding military operational areas globally. Modern transport aircraft are crucial for rapid supply of troops, weapons, logistics, and relief equipment in these regions.
Beyond military use, these aircraft will also strengthen India’s role in international humanitarian assistance missions. The report highlights the Indian Air Force’s pivotal role during the “Operation Amistad” following the devastating earthquake in Venezuela in June 2026, where C-17 Globemaster III aircraft delivered vital relief and medical support.
In that operation, two C-17s transported a 41-member medical team from the Indian Army’s 60 Para Field Hospital, along with medical equipment, relief supplies, and two portable hospitals to Venezuela.
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