India Boosts Maritime Strength with 15 New C-295-Based Patrol Aircraft

Defense News ,India :- In a significant move to make India stronger at sea, the Indian Ministry of Defence has given the green light to buy 15 new aircraft for maritime patrols. This deal, estimated to cost Rs 29,000 crore, includes nine surveillance planes for the Indian Navy and six patrol planes for the Indian Coast Guard.

The special thing about these planes is that they will be made using the C-295 transport aircraft, built in India through a partnership between Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus. This is a big step towards the "Make in India" plan for the defense sector. The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Centre for Airborne Systems will add special radars and sensors to the C-295 platforms, turning them into versatile maritime patrol aircraft.

Getting these new aircraft will really help India keep a close eye on its long coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Navy's new surveillance planes will improve its abilities in things like anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and long-range surveillance. Similarly, the Coast Guard's upgraded patrol planes will be more effective in tasks such as protecting fisheries, anti-piracy efforts, and responding to disasters.

This move is happening at a time when there are increasing worries about security in the Indian Ocean, including issues like piracy, illegal fishing, and potential tensions between countries. By strengthening its maritime abilities, India can actively work towards regional stability and protect its interests at sea.

Approving this project is a big step in bringing India's maritime forces up to date. Using planes made in India promotes self-reliance and technological progress in the defense sector. When these aircraft are delivered, both the Navy and the Coast Guard will be better equipped to protect India's interests at sea and contribute to security in the region.