NEWS: The Ministry of Defence issued a ₹1 lakh crore tender for 60 Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA) to replace the IAF’s ageing transport fleet and strengthen strategic airlift capability.

Highlights

• MoD tender: Around ₹1 lakh crore for 60 MTA for the IAF.
• Purpose: Replace ageing transport aircraft and strengthen strategic airlift.
• Role: Transport troops, equipment, vehicles and supplies over long distances.
• Possible aerial-refuelling/tanker capability.

Make in India

• Indian-led programme with global OEM partnerships.
• Around 20% aircraft may be inducted in fly-away condition.
• Remaining aircraft to be manufactured in India.
• Indigenous content expected to exceed 60% in domestically produced aircraft.
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and aerospace manufacturing.

Proposed Partnerships

• Mahindra Defence + Embraer: C-390 Millennium.
• Tata + Lockheed Martin: C-130J Super Hercules.

Strategic Significance

• Enhances rapid movement of forces across India’s difficult terrain and long borders.
• Useful during military emergencies, disaster relief and humanitarian operations.
• Tanker configuration can extend the endurance of fighter aircraft.