Archive · 21 Sep 2026
India Plans 60 Medium Transport Aircraft for Air Force
India is reportedly planning to buy 60 new transport planes for its Air Force.
The planes would replace older Antonov An-32 aircraft.
They would be able to carry more cargo and troops.
Twelve planes would arrive ready to fly, while 48 would be built in India.
Possible aircraft include the C-130J Super Hercules and the C-390 Millennium.
These planes can carry supplies, perform rescue missions and operate in difficult locations.
Building many of them in India could also support local aerospace manufacturing.
Transport planes can help India respond to emergencies in other countries, such as earthquakes.
India’s Defence Ministry is reportedly seeking 60 Medium Transport Aircraft to replace the ageing Soviet-era Antonov An-32 fleet.
The proposed aircraft would carry between 18 and 30 tonnes, exceeding the An-32’s capacity.
Twelve aircraft would be delivered in flyaway condition, while 48 would be manufactured in India.
Potential platforms include Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Super Hercules and Embraer’s C-390 Millennium.
The fleet would support military airlift, difficult-terrain operations and humanitarian missions abroad.
- Who
- India’s Defence Ministry and Indian Air Force are involved in the reported programme.
- What
- A reported plan to acquire 60 Medium Transport Aircraft to replace the Antonov An-32 fleet.
- When
- The report describes the programme as entering a new phase; no specific procurement date is provided.
- Where
- The aircraft would support operations across India, including its northern and northeastern frontiers, with many also manufactured in India.
- Why
- To modernize India’s airlift capability, carry heavier loads, operate in difficult terrain and support humanitarian responses.
- Planned fleet size
- 60 Medium Transport Aircraft
- Reported programme value
- Approximately Rs 1 lakh crore
- Aircraft distribution
- 12 flyaway aircraft and 48 manufactured in India
- Payload requirement
- Approximately 18 to 30 tonnes
- Existing fleet being replaced
- Soviet-era Antonov An-32 aircraft
- Potential aircraft
- Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules and Embraer C-390 Millennium
- Industrial partnership
- Embraer has partnered with Mahindra Defence for the Indian programme