India's C-390 Millennium: Embraer-Mahindra Defense Collaboration
India pursues C-390 and MRFA tender with bids from Gripen E, Dassault Rafale, Boeing F-15EX and F/A-18, Lockheed Martin F-21, and Mikoyan MiG-35.
India is advancing defense modernization with two key procurement projects: the Embraer C-390 Millennium acquisition for medium transport and the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, drawing international bids.
MTA: Embraer and Mahindra Defense Sign MoU to Procure C-390 Millennium for Enhanced Transport Capabilities
In February 2024, Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defense Systems signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. This partnership aligns with India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers by boosting domestic production.
The C-390 Millennium offers efficient cargo and medical evacuation capabilities, making it a viable replacement for India's aging Soviet-origin transport fleet. Mahindra Defense’s collaboration allows India to access advanced technology while retaining production control, supporting the "Make in India" initiative.
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MRFA Program: Selecting a New Multi-Role Fighter for India's Air Force: International Bidders Lining Up
India’s MRFA program seeks 114 multi-role fighter jets to replace the MiG-21. Bidders include Boeing’s F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet, Lockheed Martin’s F-21 (an India-specific F-16 variant), Sweden’s Gripen, Dassault’s Rafale, and Mikoyan's MiG-35.
- Boeing F-15EX and F/A-18 Super Hornet: U.S. offerings with advanced avionics and robust strike capabilities, enhancing interoperability with existing American platforms like the C-17 and P-8I.
- Lockheed Martin F-21: A variant of the F-16 tailored for India, promising affordability, ease of integration, and deepened U.S.-India defense collaboration.
- Dassault Rafale: With 36 units already in service, the Rafale offers proven reliability, reducing logistical complexity if expanded.
- Saab Gripen E: Sweden’s cost-efficient platform, offering technology transfers and local assembly aligned with India’s self-reliance goals.
- Mikoyan MiG-35: Benefiting from historical ties, the MiG-35 provides cost-effectiveness and continuity for systems familiar to the IAF.
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Each offer has geopolitical implications. Lockheed Martin’s F-21 promotes India-U.S. defense ties, with potential for joint ventures and local content. Saab’s Gripen, positioned as a cost-effective choice, proposes technology transfers and local production, appealing to India’s tactical and strategic needs.
Geopolitical Influences on Procurement: Technology, Cost, Future Partnerships & Influence
India’s historic procurement choices reflect strategic partnerships with both the U.S. and Russia which will likely also affect future awards. While the MRFA and MTA programs thus consider technical specifications and costs while aiming to strengthen defense partnerships essential for regional security. Each offer has geopolitical implications. Lockheed Martin’s F-21 promotes India-U.S. defense ties, with potential for joint ventures and local content. Saab’s Gripen, positioned as a cost-effective choice, proposes technology transfers and local production, appealing to India’s tactical and strategic needs.
Implications and Strategic Autonomy: Re-Shuffling the Cards?
- Strengthening India-U.S. ties through platforms like the F-21 or F/A-18 could expand joint military exercises and technology-sharing agreements.
- Maintaining ties with Russia, a traditional supplier, remains critical, especially as India balances dependencies amidst global turbulences.
- Collaborating with European firms like Dassault or Saab diversifies partnerships, reducing over-reliance on any single country.
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Might Saab's Technology Transfer Proposal Convince India?
Saab has offered full access to critical systems, including avionics, electronic warfare, and AESA radar technology, allowing India to maintain and upgrade the fleet independently.
Localized Production: Saab proposes setting up a comprehensive production ecosystem in India, including manufacturing of avionics and weapon systems.
Balancing Indigenous Development and Foreign Collaboration
India’s self-sufficiency goal in defense involves fostering local production with strategic foreign partnerships. Policies encourage local sourcing of components for imported systems. Indigenous programs like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) demonstrate India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology.
Decisions in these procurement programs will influence India's regional power role, border security, and strategic autonomy. The Embraer-Mahindra partnership and the MRFA competition illustrate India’s balanced approach to modernization—nurturing local industry, forming selective partnerships, and preserving sovereignty.
