Dassault Aviation Reports Deterioration of Supply Chain causing Production Delay

In an official statement on Thursday, July 20, 2023, Dassault Aviation, the renowned producer of the Rafale fighter jet, expressed deep concerns over the increasing challenges in their supply chain. The company reported that the situation has worsened since the previous year, impacting their ability to fulfill customer orders promptly.

The Significance of the Rafale Fighter Jet

The Rafale fighter jet is one of the most advanced and sought-after aircraft in the world. With cutting-edge technology and superior performance capabilities, it has become a valuable asset for various air forces across the globe.

Supply Chain Woes: A Growing Concern

The supply chain plays a crucial role in the aerospace industry, ensuring the timely delivery of vital components and materials for aircraft production. Unfortunately, Dassault Aviation has encountered several hurdles in its supply chain, causing disruptions and delays. "This situation has an impact on the development and production of our aircraft, while we need to ramp up to meet our commitments," the company stated in a statement.

Impact on Production Timelines

With supply chain concerns exacerbating, Dassault Aviation is facing significant challenges in meeting their production timelines. Delays in obtaining essential parts and materials have led to a slowdown in the manufacturing process, affecting their ability to complete orders on schedule.

Dassault's order backlog remained at 34.42 billion euros ($38.31 billion) as of the end of June, including 160 Rafale aircraft and 90 Falcon business jets, according to the company. In the first half of the year, new orders for twelve Falcon business aircraft totaled 1.68 billion euros ($1.87 billion). Last year, that figure was 16.29 billion euros, which included 80 Rafales.

Identifying the Root Causes

The company has been actively investigating the root causes behind these supply chain challenges. Factors such as increased demand, transportation issues, and shortages of critical components have been identified as key contributors to the predicament.

Collaborative Measures with Suppliers

To mitigate the impact of the supply chain disruptions, Dassault Aviation is collaborating closely with its suppliers. Building stronger partnerships and open communication channels is essential to finding viable solutions and restoring the smooth flow of materials.

Streamlining Logistics and Transportation

Efficient logistics and transportation are vital to ensuring the seamless movement of parts and components from suppliers to production facilities. Dassault Aviation is working on streamlining these aspects to minimize delays and maximize efficiency.

Investing in Regional Manufacturing

In light of the supply chain challenges, Dassault Aviation is exploring the possibility of investing in regional manufacturing capabilities. This move would help diversify their sources and reduce dependency on specific suppliers, enhancing their resilience to future disruptions.

Prioritizing Customer Satisfaction

Despite the challenges, Dassault Aviation remains committed to prioritizing customer satisfaction. The company is keeping its customers informed about potential delays and working diligently to find solutions that meet their requirements.

A Focus on Innovation

As part of its long-term strategy, Dassault Aviation is placing an increased emphasis on innovation. By developing advanced technologies and production methods, the company aims to enhance the efficiency of its supply chain and improve overall performance.

The Road Ahead: Overcoming Adversities

Though supply chain concerns present formidable obstacles, Dassault Aviation is determined to overcome them. By adopting a proactive and collaborative approach, the company is confident in its ability to resolve the current challenges and emerge stronger.

Conclusion

Dassault Aviation's announcement regarding the supply chain challenges impacting Rafale fighter jet orders has drawn attention to the complexities of the aerospace industry. As they work diligently to address these issues, the company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction remains unwavering. By focusing on enhancing supply chain efficiency and investing in regional manufacturing capabilities, Dassault Aviation is positioning itself to tackle future adversities with resilience and determination.

With Inputs from Reuters

In a bold move to revolutionize the aviation industry and provide aspiring pilots with an unprecedented opportunity, British Airways has announced the launch of its groundbreaking pilot cadet programme, the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy. This visionary initiative aims to address the pilot shortage while making the profession of airline piloting more accessible to talented individuals worldwide.

The Need for a New Pilot Cadet Programme

The aviation industry has been grappling with a significant pilot shortage in recent years, driven by an aging pilot workforce and the rapid expansion of air travel. Addressing this challenge has become a top priority for airlines worldwide. British Airways, known for its innovation and commitment to excellence, has taken a proactive stance to resolve this issue.

Introducing the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy

The British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy is a comprehensive programme designed to nurture and train up to 60 prospective pilots annually. With this academy, British Airways aims to inspire the next generation of aviators and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to soar to new heights in their careers.

Removing the Financial Barrier

One of the most remarkable aspects of this initiative is that it removes the financial burden that has long hindered many from pursuing a career in aviation. Selected candidates will receive sponsorship for their flight training, effectively breaking down the barriers that have prevented countless talented individuals from realizing their dream of becoming pilots.

The Selection Process

The selection process for the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy is rigorous yet fair, designed to identify candidates with the utmost potential. Aspiring pilots will undergo a series of evaluations, including aptitude tests, interviews, and psychometric assessments. British Airways seeks not only technical proficiency but also the passion and determination to excel in the skies.

Training at an Authorized Flight School

Upon being accepted into the programme, candidates will embark on their training journey at a prestigious authorized flight school. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, they will gain hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge to prepare them for the challenges of the aviation industry.

Becoming a British Airways Pilot

After successfully completing the intensive training programme, graduates will earn their wings and be welcomed into the British Airways family as full-fledged pilots. This coveted opportunity to fly for one of the world's most renowned airlines is a dream come true for aspiring aviators.

The Impact on Future Flying Talent

The British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy is set to have a profound impact on the future of aviation talent. By nurturing a diverse pool of skilled pilots, the academy ensures that British Airways and the industry as a whole have a steady supply of competent professionals to operate the aircraft of tomorrow.

Empowering Diversity in Aviation

In addition to addressing the pilot shortage, the academy is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the aviation sector. By encouraging individuals from all walks of life to pursue their passion for flying, British Airways is fostering a more representative and dynamic industry.

Addressing the Pilot Shortage

The pilot shortage has been a significant concern for airlines globally. Through the Speedbird Pilot Academy, British Airways is proactively taking steps to mitigate this shortage and ensure a steady supply of well-trained pilots for the future.

Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles

While the pilot cadet programme is a milestone achievement, it has not come without its fair share of challenges and obstacles. British Airways' commitment to addressing these hurdles head-on demonstrates its unwavering dedication to the success of the academy and its cadets.

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"The Speedbird Pilot Academy will make the dream of becoming a British Airways pilot a reality for people who had previously written it off due to the cost barrier," stated Sean Doyle, Chairman and CEO of British Airways.

"Our goal is to attract the best talent available for our next generation of pilots." We are levelling the playing field by removing the first training cost barrier, making a flying career more accessible to a larger spectrum of individuals, and providing everyone an equal shot, whether someone is just leaving school or beginning a second career they never imagined conceivable.”

Conclusion

The establishment of the British Airways Speedbird Pilot Academy marks a new era in aviation, where barriers to entry are dismantled and aspiring pilots are given the opportunity of a lifetime. By investing in the future of aviation talent, British Airways is not only securing its place as a leading airline but also shaping the future of the industry itself.

With Inputs form British Airways

On Thursday, July 20, 2023, a momentous decision was made in the United States House of Representatives regarding the commercial aviation industry. The House voted 351-69 in favor of adopting legislation that raises the statutory commercial pilot retirement age from 65 to 67, alongside other crucial aviation reforms.

This bill aims to reauthorize U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aviation safety and infrastructure programs for the next five years. The Senate is now preparing to debate its own measure, marking a significant turning point in the realm of aviation regulations.

Why Increase the Retirement Age?

A Growing Demand for Air Travel

The aviation industry has experienced exponential growth in recent years, with air travel becoming an integral part of our lives. As the demand for air travel continues to rise, there is a need for skilled pilots to navigate the skies and ensure safe journeys for passengers. By raising the retirement age to 67, the pool of experienced pilots available to airlines will expand, helping meet the surging demands of the industry.

Extending Pilot Careers

Modern advancements in technology and medical care have resulted in longer, healthier lives for individuals. As pilots are now capable of maintaining their skills and fitness well into their 60s, raising the retirement age recognizes and utilizes the expertise of experienced pilots for a more extended period. This extension not only benefits the pilots but also adds value to the aviation industry as a whole.

Addressing Safety Concerns

Rigorous Medical Assessments

Aviation safety is of paramount importance, and the FAA maintains stringent medical assessments for pilots. As pilots age, these assessments become even more critical. By raising the retirement age, the legislation acknowledges the need for more comprehensive and regular medical evaluations to ensure that pilots are physically and mentally fit to fly.

Experience as a Safety Factor

Experience plays a crucial role in handling challenging situations in the air. Older pilots, with their vast experience, have encountered a wide range of scenarios throughout their careers, making them adept at handling emergencies. By retaining experienced pilots for longer, the legislation seeks to enhance overall flight safety.

Concerns and Criticisms

Age-Related Decline

One of the primary concerns raised against raising the pilot retirement age is the potential age-related decline in cognitive and physical abilities. Critics argue that as pilots age, their reaction times and decision-making capabilities might diminish, impacting their performance in critical situations. Addressing these concerns will be vital to ensuring the continued safety of air travel.

Career Opportunities for Younger Pilots

According to ALPA, as grievances and litigation are resolved, over-65 pilots will almost certainly need to be retrained to fly smaller aircraft used on domestic routes, displacing younger pilots who will almost certainly need additional training due to displacement and delaying the training of pilots who would normally be in queue for upgrade training.

By extending the careers of older pilots, some critics worry that opportunities for younger pilots might be limited. The aviation industry must strike a balance between retaining experienced pilots and providing avenues for young talent to enter the field. The legislation must address this issue to maintain a healthy and diverse pilot workforce.

Flight Options

It is expected that fewer pilots will be available to fly immediately at first. Pilot bidding is based on seniority, and pilots between the ages of 65 and 67 who are predominantly widebody captains are contractually obligated to bid on certain flights. These over 65 pilots are quite likely to bid on flights they are unable to carry out and be paid for them even though they will not operate them.

The Senate Debate

As the House bill moves to the Senate for debate, it is expected that further discussions and amendments will take place. The Senate's deliberations will play a significant role in shaping the final legislation and determining its potential impact on the aviation industry.

Conclusion

The decision of the United States House of Representatives to raise the statutory commercial pilot retirement age from 65 to 67, along with other aviation reforms, marks a pivotal moment for the aviation industry. By recognizing the need for experienced pilots and addressing safety concerns, this legislation aims to ensure the continued growth and safety of air travel. As the Senate begins its debate, further refinements and considerations will be made, solidifying the future of aviation regulations in the United States.

With Inputs from Reuters

In an exciting move that celebrates the spirit of athleticism and international cooperation, Air France has recently declared a partnership agreement with the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee (OCOPG). This collaboration marks a significant milestone for the airline as it solidifies its position as the official partner of the 33rd Olympics of the modern era.

Notably, this partnership's roots trace back to 2016, when Air France became the official partner of the Paris 2024 bid, and since then, the airline has been steadfast in its unwavering support for this global sporting extravaganza.

A Long-Term Commitment to the Olympic Movement

Air France's partnership with the Paris 2024 Olympics goes beyond a mere sponsorship; it embodies a long-term commitment to the Olympic movement. With a history dating back to the inception of the modern Olympics, Air France has always been passionate about supporting sporting events that promote unity, perseverance, and excellence. This partnership represents an ideal platform for the airline to share its values with the world and support athletes in their quest for sporting greatness.

The Synergy Between Air France and Paris 2024

The partnership between Air France and Paris 2024 is not a coincidence but a well-thought-out alliance that showcases a perfect synergy. Air France, with its extensive global network, complements the international appeal of the Olympic Games. As athletes and spectators travel from various corners of the world to Paris, Air France stands ready to facilitate smooth and seamless journeys, further elevating the Olympic experience.

A Shared Vision: Promoting Sporting Excellence

Both Air France and the Paris 2024 Olympics share a common vision: promoting sporting excellence. As a leading airline, Air France understands the significance of hard work, dedication, and precision – values that parallel the commitment and discipline of Olympic athletes. Through this partnership, Air France aims to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams and reach new heights in their respective fields.

Enhancing the Athlete Experience: Travel and Logistics

Traveling for international sporting events can be physically and mentally taxing for athletes. Recognizing this, Air France is dedicated to enhancing the athlete’s experience during their journeys. From comfortable seating to special provisions for sporting equipment, the airline ensures that athletes can focus on their preparation and performance without worrying about logistical challenges.

Sustainability Initiatives for a Greener Olympics

Air France is committed to reducing its environmental impact and has implemented several sustainability initiatives to support the green objectives of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The airline's efforts include reducing carbon emissions, investing in fuel-efficient aircraft, and promoting responsible travel practices among its passengers. By aligning with the Olympic Games' sustainability goals, Air France emphasizes its commitment to a greener future for sports and aviation.

Cultural Enrichment through Air France

Air France not only connects people through its flights but also enriches their cultural experiences. As the official partner of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the airline seeks to provide travelers with a taste of French culture even before they reach their destination. From onboard cuisine to in-flight entertainment, Air France will infuse an essence of Parisian flair, enabling passengers to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant spirit.

Leveraging Digital Platforms for Engagement

In this digital age, Air France recognizes the importance of staying connected with its audience. Throughout the lead-up to the Paris 2024 Olympics, the airline will leverage its digital platforms to engage with sports enthusiasts worldwide. Social media campaigns, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactive content will contribute to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the Games.

Community Outreach and Legacy Programs

Beyond the sporting arena, Air France aims to make a positive impact on local communities through its community outreach and legacy programs. These initiatives will extend beyond the conclusion of the Paris 2024 Olympics, leaving a lasting legacy of social progress and development.

The Impact of the Partnership on Air Travel

The partnership with the Paris 2024 Olympics is expected to have a considerable impact on air travel. With an influx of athletes, fans, and dignitaries, Air France foresees increased demand for flights to and from Paris during the Games. As a result, the airline is actively preparing to accommodate this surge and ensure an unforgettable travel experience for all passengers.

The Global Reach of the Olympics

The Olympic Games are a testament to the power of unity and sportsmanship, bringing together nations from around the globe. As the official partner, Air France is excited to play a crucial role in connecting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.

Air France's Commitment to Accessibility

Air France is determined to make the Olympic Games accessible to all, regardless of physical abilities or limitations. By offering special services and facilities for Paralympic athletes and spectators, the airline aims to create an inclusive environment that promotes diversity and equal opportunities.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes

The Paris 2024 Olympics provide a unique platform to inspire the next generation of athletes. Air France, as a partner, seeks to motivate aspiring sportspeople worldwide to follow their passions and strive for greatness. By showcasing the journeys of Olympic athletes, the airline hopes to ignite the spark of determination and ambition in young minds.

Building Excitement and Anticipation

With the Paris 2024 Olympics drawing nearer, Air France is committed to building excitement and anticipation among sports enthusiasts worldwide. Through various marketing campaigns and collaborations, the airline aims to create a palpable buzz around the Games, making it an event to remember for years to come.

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"We are delighted to extend our partnership with the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris." After the thrill of Paris being awarded the Games, we can't wait to contribute to the success of this global event. The Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris in 2024 reflect Air France's aims and values. "By the summer of 2024, we will have helped the best of France soar around the world like never before, on the wings of excellence, respect, and inclusion," remarked Benjamin Smith, CEO of the Air France-KLM Group.

"At Air France, we are already marshalling all of our resources to ensure the success of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris." Preparations for next summer and the process of bringing athletes and supporters to the various Olympic and Paralympic venues commenced months ago. "This is a journey that our 38,000 employees - pilots, flight attendants, and ground teams - are excited to embark on and share with visitors from all over the world," noted Air France CEO Anne Rigail.

"As you can imagine, we are especially thrilled to welcome Air France to the Paris 2024 journey as an Official Partner of the Games," commented Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet. The renowned airline is an emblematic gem of the French economy, and it has a long relationship with the Games, having supported us since the bid phase in 2016. We look forward to welcoming the globe and delivering on our pledge to host the Olympics with a French flair while staying true to our slogan: Games wide open!"

Conclusion

Air France's partnership with the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee represents a significant milestone in the airline's history. As the official partner of the 33rd Olympics of the modern era, Air France is poised to contribute to the success of the Games by providing seamless travel experiences, promoting sustainability, and inspiring individuals to embrace the spirit of sporting excellence.

During the hearing of a bail plea by Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of SpiceJet, at the Delhi High Court on July 19, the court took note of the serious allegations of fraud in a share transfer agreement against him. "The allegations in the complaint seem to be serious in nature," observed Judge Dinesh Kumar, reported Moneycontrol. Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma, presiding over the case, suggested that the parties involved should consider settling. Judge Sharma observed that the complaints appeared to be grave.

Representing Singh, senior advocate Sidharth Luthra assured the court that he would explore potential settlement options with the opposing party and hold discussions soon. Luthra stated that the allegations were not as serious as they were portrayed. The court subsequently adjourned the case to August 8. It's worth noting that in a previous instance, the court had also encouraged the parties to settle the matter, but they were unable to reach an agreement.

The case revolves around the transfer of shares of the low-cost airline to specific individuals. Allegedly, a Delhi businessman and his family entered into a share purchase agreement with Singh, paying INR 10 lakh for 10 lakh shares, but Singh did not provide the shares as agreed. Furthermore, he claimed to have handed over outdated and invalid delivery instruction slips (DISs).

In April 2022, the high court granted interim relief to Singh against any coercive action by the police. However, in September 2022, the court clarified that it had not stayed the investigation against Ajay Singh. Last month, the trial court rejected Singh's anticipatory bail application, citing insufficient grounds to grant relief considering the overall facts, circumstances of the case, and the gravity of the offence.

SpiceJet Ltd's shares fell 1.5% on Wednesday, July 19 as Delhi High Court found charges of fraud against low-cost carrier's CMD Ajay Singh "serious in nature". The case pertained to the transfer of shares of a low-cost airline to certain individuals.

Never-Ending Problems of SpiceJet

Cash-strapped SpiceJet had reported at least eight incidents of technical malfunction between June 19, 2022, and July 6, 2022, following which the regulator had ordered the airline to operate just 50% of its scheduled flights. This cap was removed by the DGCA on October 21, 2022. SpiceJet has been incurring losses since the financial year ended March 31, 2019 (FY19). The company’s consolidated net loss swelled to INR 1,744 crore in FY22 from INR 1,030 crore in FY21. It has not released FY23 results citing the ‘medical incapacitation’ of a key member of its audit committee. 

The budget airline has been facing multiple financial headwinds in recent months due to rising fuel costs, intense competition and delays in aircraft maintenance. SpiceJet has further delayed the declaration of its financial results for fiscal year 2022-2023 citing that a key member of its audit committee is incapacitated. The airline has been trying to raise funds for some time but has not succeeded. The only funding in recent times for it has come in the form of more loans under the emergency credit line guarantee scheme.

SpiceJet, which has been facing various headwinds, has settled the issues with certain aircraft lessors. On June 21, the airline said it has entered into a settlement agreement with Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC), a lessor for its Q400 planes. On July 7, the Supreme Court declined SpiceJet’s application to extend the time for making Rs 380 crore interest payment to media baron Kalanithi Maran and his Kal Airways in a share-transfer dispute case. On July 10, Kal Airways stated that there was no question of an “amicable” settlement with SpiceJet and asked the carrier to pay up the interest amount according to the court order.

(With Inputs from MoneyControl)

Indian Air Force (IAF) crews will carry out acceptance trials of India’s first C295 transport aircraft at the Airbus Defence and Space’s Seville facility in southern Spain in early September before taking delivery of the plane and flying it to the country, setting in motion a crucial Make in India project worth INR 21,935 crore to equip the IAF with 56 such aircraft to modernise its transport fleet, reported The Hindustan Times.

Forty of those planes are to be built in India, and work on domestic production is in full swing. The first aircraft completed its maiden flight in May while the second one is in final assembly at Airbus’s Seville facility and will be delivered to IAF in May 2024. At present, the only final assembly line for the C295 aircraft is located in Seville – it also produces the Airbus A400 aircraft.

The delivery of the first C295 will come two years after the defence ministry signed the contract with Airbus to boost self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus are jointly executing the programme. Six IAF pilots and 20 technicians have been trained at the Seville facility, the final assembly line for the transport aircraft, said Jorge Tamarit, head of the C295 India programme told The Hindustan Times. He said another 18 pilots and 60 technicians will be trained at Seville next year.

The first plane will be flown to India by a four-man IAF crew, including the two pilots, and supported by an Airbus pilot and a flight engineer. The first sixteen C295 aircraft will be delivered to the IAF by Airbus in flyaway condition from Spain, and the remaining 40 will be assembled in India. The indigenous content in the planes is set to gradually increase, peaking with the 32nd aircraft onwards, Tamarit said.

The main constituent assembly for the C295 set up by Tata at Hyderabad will be functional next week, while the final assembly line in Vadodara will be operational in November 2024, said Jorge Madrid, another senior Airbus official associated with the Indian programme. The Hyderabad facility will focus on manufacturing and assembly of C295 parts that will go into the building of the full aircraft at the Vadodara plant. A training centre for C295 crews will be ready in Agra next year, he said.

In October 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the manufacturing facility being set up by the Tata-Airbus consortium at Vadodara. The C295 will be the first military aircraft to be manufactured in India by a private consortium.

The 16 aircraft in flyaway condition will be delivered between September 2023 and August 2025, while the first Made in India C295 will roll out of the Vadodara facility in September 2026 and the remaining 39 by August 2031, officials said. “The delivery schedule is really aggressive, but Airbus is working at full steam to deliver an essential capability to the IAF and strengthen India’s aerospace and defence sector,” Tamarit said.

IAF will be the world’s largest operator of the C295. The aircraft was ordered as a replacement for the IAF’s fleet of ageing Avro-748 planes that entered service in the early 1960s. As part of the C295 India project, the manufacture of more than 13,000 parts, 4,600 sub-assemblies and all major component assemblies will be carried out in the country. Around 3,500 parts are likely to be locally produced in India every year, Tamarit said. “The local content will increase progressively in the aircraft assembled in India as part of the main constituent assembly transfer plan. It covers everything from winglets to fuselage and aerostructures to several control units,” Tamarit said.

To be sure, equipment such as engines, landing gear and avionics will be provided by Airbus, and integrated into the aircraft by the consortium. The tactical airlifter is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW127G turboprop engines. The final assembly line in India (the first one outside Spain) will have a capacity for 12 aircraft per year and will be operated by Tata with the same standards as the C295 final assembly line in Seville, Tamarit said.

The C295 contract covers performance-based logistics support for five years, supply of spares across 10 operating bases for 10 years, ground support and test equipment, and training, the officials said. The Avro replacement project was in the works for more than a decade before the C295 contract was signed. The defence acquisition council, India’s apex defence procurement body, gave its acceptance of necessity (AoN) in 2012 to replace the Avro planes with 56 new aircraft. Under India’s defence procurement rules, AoN by the council is the first step towards buying military hardware.

The C295 final assembly line in India is the first concrete, large-scale Make-in-India defence programme in the private sector that will unlock the industrial value chain of design, manufacturing, assembly, testing, delivery, and maintenance of the complete lifecycle of the aircraft.

The C295 can carry up to nine tonnes of payload or 71 personnel or 45 paratroopers and has a maximum speed of 480 kmph. It can also operate from short or unprepared airstrips, has a rear ramp for para-dropping troops and cargo, and will strengthen the logistics capabilities of the IAF. Apart from the 56 planes already ordered, the C295 facility at Vadodara will be capable of meeting the additional requirements of the Indian military and catering to export orders. The Airbus-Tata combine is in talks with the defence ministry for meeting the Navy and coast guard’s requirement for nine and six maritime aircraft respectively, officials said.

All 56 aircraft will be fitted with the indigenous electronic warfare suite developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited. While BEL has supplied the radar warning receiver and the missile approach warning system, BDL has provided the countermeasure dispensing system, the officials said. After the completion of the delivery of 56 aircraft to the IAF, Airbus-Tata combines will be allowed to sell the aircraft manufactured in India to civilian operators and export to countries cleared by New Delhi.

The project will provide a boost to India’s aerospace ecosystem and generate 15,000 highly skilled and 10,000 direct jobs, officials added. The Airbus-Tata combine has identified more than 125 domestic MSME suppliers spread across seven states.

(With Inputs from The Hindustan Times)