- Building on its proven in-service reliability in disaster relief and military operationsthe C-27J Next Generation will expand its mission capability
- The first enhanced aircraft will be delivered to an undisclosed customer in 2021
- Mission-proven across all geographic conditions, in the most demanding operationaltasks, the C-27J it the ideal platform for the continuous introduction of newcapabilities
Leonardo has begun the final testing of the C-27J Next Generation
which features new equipment, a new avionics system and advanced aerodynamic devices, these
will enhance the existing high performance of the aircraft. The first C-27J in the new configuration
will be delivered to an undisclosed customer in 2021.
The performance and reliability of the C-27J Spartan continues to evolve as the best response to
its customers’ needs. Pushing on the aircraft’s versatility and mission flexibility, the C-27J offers
an ever-increasing range of mission solutions, which adapt in response to new challenges faced
by operators. A true force enabler, its unrivalled multi-mission capabilities are key in presenting
the latest evolution of the Spartan as a cost-effective solution and an intelligent investment for
nations, which are selecting it for their military, as well as civil protection requirements.
Marco Zoff, Leonardo Aircraft Division’s Managing Director, said: “The enhanced C-27J brings
the unrivalled quality and capabilities of the Spartan to the next, higher level. Its operators will
benefit from modern avionics, increased performance and efficiency. The Spartan embodies the
essence of national security, proving to be the best asset for armed forces’ defence operations
and for their fundamental contribution to population support and disaster relief.” In a world hit this
year by the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies international media have extensively
reported on the C-27J’s relentless and effective support to communities in need. Mr. Zoff also
added: “Our customers have discovered in this aircraft an element of social inclusion, because it
is the only aircraft capable to reach people in the most remote rural areas of their nations.”
Leonardo is committed to serving and protecting communities around the world, contributing to
their sustainable growth by leading in next generation technologies. Partnering with
Governments, private organizations and industries for the best security and safety capabilities is
a cornerstone of Leonardo’s BeTomorrow2030 Strategic Plan.
Already acknowledged as the most effective multi-mission military transport aircraft in its class,
the C-27J Next Generation today features comprehensive new avionics and aerodynamic
developments with new winglets, for improved operational efficiency and even better
performance. Mission-proven across all continents with a number of prime air forces, the Spartan
is operated in the world’s most demanding operational environments – from the Andes to
Afghanistan – for military transport, cargo and paratroopers air drop, last tactical mile troop
support, special operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Note to Editors
The brand-new avionics system of the C-27J Next Generation is designed to comply with Next Generation
Air Traffic Control requirements, including FANS 1/A+ datalink; TCAS 7.1; ILS Cat.II; enhanced video
TAWS. New cockpit displays; new weather radar; new radio navigation; enhanced satellite communications
and radio communication capabilities; new intercommunication system; new cockpit and cargo panels;
Mode 5 IFF/ADS-B out and tactical VNAV and Search and Rescue; lighting system with LED technology
have also been included. Moreover, former avionics and general systems interface boxes have been
replaced with new equipment by Leonardo’s Electronics. The new baseline configuration is also offered as
a retrofit to current operators wanting to upgrade their C-27J fleet capabilities.
Thanks to its exceptional structural strength and systems redundancy, the C-27J offers unique qualities of
ruggedness, reliability, outstanding survivability and manoeuvrability. Its capability to operate from the most
rudimentary airstrips, performing short take-offs and landings (STOL) in extreme environmental conditions
is enhanced by the winglets, while Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) provides an independent power source,
which can restart engines in flight, or make the aircraft autonomous and self-reliable during deployment
missions at improvised airfields.
The aircraft can be equipped with a Defensive Aids Sub-Systems suite, secure communications and ballistic
protection in order to operate in high threat environments.
Thanks to its multiple roll-on/roll-off mission kits and systems, the C-27J can be quickly configured and
reconfigured to carry out a wide range of tasks, including a tactical transport, maritime patrol, even
incorporating ASW or C3ISR tasks. As a tactical transport aircraft, its capabilities include transport of troops,
cargo, paratroops and cargo airdrop, Medevac/Casevac, VIP, but can also carry out operations of
humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and fire-fighting, thanks to its fast operational reconfiguration.