India issues $10.48 billion tender for 60 multirole transport aircraft

Published Aug 13, 01:15 PM UTC

India's Ministry of Defence has issued a tender worth approximately Rs1 trillion ($10.48 billion) for the acquisition of 60 multirole transport aircraft (MTA) for the Indian Air Force. The tender, circulated to domestic firms including HAL, Tata, and Mahindra, mandates that the procurement be led by Indian companies forming joint ventures with global OEMs. About 20% of the aircraft will be delivered in fly-away condition, while the rest will be manufactured in India with over 60% indigenous content. Key contenders include Mahindra Defence with Embraer's C-390 Millennium and Tata with Lockheed Martin's C-130J Super Hercules. The aircraft are intended to enhance strategic and tactical airlift capabilities, with potential reconfiguration for aerial refueling. Separately, the IAF has issued an RFI for 150 advanced jet trainers, and France has submitted a proposal for 114 Rafale fighters.