Indian Air Force airlifter contract bidders push credentials at Aero India
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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Northrop Grumman and Kratos team up to develop US Marine Corps CCA]()
Northrop Grumman and Kratos team up to develop US Marine Corps CCA
Northrop Grumman will provide the autonomy software for the USMC loyal wingman, which will be integrated into Kratos’ XQ-58 Valkyrie uncrewed aerial system.
-
![US Air Force prepares to test uncrewed F-16 VISTA in challenging scenarios]()
US Air Force prepares to test uncrewed F-16 VISTA in challenging scenarios
Th mission systems upgrade of the X-62 VISTA variant of the F-16 will allow the air force to evaluate the jet in more demanding environments.
-
![Lockheed’s deal to triple PAC-3 MSE production opens doors to portfolio boost]()
Lockheed’s deal to triple PAC-3 MSE production opens doors to portfolio boost
The framework agreement with the US Department of Defense would see Lockheed Martin increase production capacity from 600 to 2,000 interceptors per year.
