Today, Vadodara, Gujarat, welcomed the official opening of a fighter aircraft manufacturing plant at the Tata Aircraft Complex, a collaboration with Spain’s Airbus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez led the inauguration of this significant facility.
This Tata Aircraft Complex will produce the C-295 fighter jet, aiming to manufacture 40 jets by 2026 to directly boost India’s defence capabilities. This partnership marks a vital advance in India’s defence sector and expands its industrial base.
Prime Minister Modi addressed the event, emphasizing, “Our new aircraft manufacturing capacity will deeply enhance the India-Spain partnership. Today, we’re giving fresh momentum to our cooperation. This C-295 plant is a symbol of the ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ mission.”
Similarly, Prime Minister Sanchez highlighted the collaboration’s impact, saying, “This aircraft showcases the best of Spanish and European aeronautics. Moreover, it will drive India’s defence modernization and foster industrial growth in Gujarat, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Engineers and technicians will also gain training opportunities.”
Before the inauguration, both leaders held a roadshow from Gujarat Airport to the Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) campus, greeting the crowd in an open jeep.
After today’s events, Sanchez will visit Mumbai tomorrow before returning to Spain. Before his departure, the two leaders will explore the historic Lakshmi Vilas Palace, where the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has arranged a bilateral meeting.