The Slovenian defense ministry announced it would purchase a C-27J Spartan aircraft in a bid to boost its air force’s air transportation capabilities.
Built by Italian defense contractor Leonardo, the C-27J will represent a significant upgrade from the Let L-410 Turbolet short-range transport aircraft currently in service with the Slovenian Air Force.
The defense ministry said it would seek to buy the aircraft through a government to government procedure with Italy. It did not provide any details regarding the purchase price or the delivery schedule.
It has been noted, however, that the procurement process would continue as soon as the lawmakers clear funds for investments in the Slovenian Armed Forces for the years 2021 to 2026.
The Alenia C-27J can be configured to carry out not only tactical transport including troops, cargo, paratroops and cargo airdrop, Medevac/Casevac and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support, but also VIP transport, firefighting, ISR, maritime patrol and tactical support missions.
The turboprop airlifter can transport up to 60 personnel or 11.6 tons of cargo at distances of close to 6,000 kilometers.
