India MoD issues RFP for multirole transport aircraft programme

Published Aug 18, 01:52 PM UTC

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for a multirole transport aircraft (MTA) programme, as confirmed by an industry source to Janes. Issued on 12 August 2026, the RFP seeks 60 transport aircraft at an estimated cost of INR1 trillion (USD10 billion). The Indian Air Force (IAF) aims to replace its ageing Soviet-era Antonov An-32 fleet with aircraft capable of carrying 18–30 tonnes of payload. Deliveries must begin within 36 months of contract signature. Local media reports indicate the tender includes 12 aircraft to be delivered in fly-away condition and 48 to be produced in India. Airbus Defence and Space (A400M Atlas), Embraer Defense and Security (C-390 Millennium, partnered with Mahindra Defence Systems), and Lockheed Martin (C-130J) have previously expressed interest in the programme, which follows a July 2023 request for information (RFI).