In what could be seen as another milestone in India’s efforts to become a defence exporter, especially to friendly nations in the Global South, an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster aircraft landed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Guyana with an H-228 aircraft on Saturday.
Manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), H-228—an updated, indigenously produced civil variant of the Dornier Do-228—is a twin-engine, turboprop utility aircraft with short take-off and landing (STOL) capability, ideal for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and transport missions.
According to media reports, Guyana received another aircraft on Sunday. These were part of a line-of-credit arrangement between the two countries and added to the growing fleet of Indian-origin aircraft in Guyana.
In 2024, Guyana had reportedly received two similar platforms.
The move reflects a “strong and expanding partnership” between the two countries, the Indian High Commission in Guyana said.
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The induction of these platforms is expected to boost connectivity in Guyana, especially in remote regions. Built for tough operating conditions, the aircraft is well-suited to Guyana’s terrain and would enhance the transport of people, goods, and critical services while also boosting capabilities in emergency response and surveillance operations.
The delivery of the Dornier 228 to Guyana marks a significant step in strengthening India’s strategic footprint in the Caribbean and Latin America, while also showcasing HAL’s growing ability to export complete defence platforms.
The move also aligns closely with the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” push and its expanding defence export ambitions. Such deals show India’s emergence as a cost-effective and reliable partner for friendly nations, when compared to more expensive Western suppliers.
