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Indian Air Force airlifter contract bidders push credentials at Aero India

19th February 2025 - 15:35 GMT | by Neelam Mathews in Yelahanka

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A C-130J, one of the three contender aircraft, at Aero India. (Photo: author)

The three main bidders aiming to replace India’s ageing An-32 and Il-76 transporter fleet were at Aero India to put their case, despite recent geopolitical pressures on the competition.

Bidders for an Indian Air Force (IAF) contract for a Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) showcased their offerings at the Aero India 2025 event in Bengaluru between 10-14 February.

The Indian Ministry of Defence's Request for Information relating to the IAF's requirement for a batch of 40, 60, and 80 MTA was released in late 2022.

There is an imminent need to replace around 100 ageing aircraft in the IAF, particularly its An-32s and Il-76 transports, over the next seven years.

The replacements for these aircraft should have a cargo capacity of between 18-30 tons, which has narrowed the field of

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