The Thailand defense ministry has awarded Airbus a contract for the delivery of an additional C295 tactical transport aircraft.
The aircraft will be the third C295 in the Thai defense ministry fleet. The first two are in service with the air force while the third will be used by the Royal Thai Army.
Delivery of the third airframe is expected to take place in 2023, a little over a decade after the first two were delivered.
“The C295 is gaining popularity in Asia-Pacific due to its modularity, maneuverability and endurance capability. The low cost of operation compared to any other platform of its class makes it a good prospect for the militaries. We certainly look forward to supporting the growing C295 fleet in this region,” Johan Pelissier, head of Asia-Pacific for Airbus Defence & Space, commented.
Previously produced by Construcciones Aeronáuticas SA (CASA, a Spanish aircraft manufacturer that is now part of Airbus Defence and Space), the C295’s production takes place at Airbus’ facility in Spain. It is used by both military and civil operators around the world. In addition to troop transport and patrol missions, the C295 can also be delivered in special versions such as gunship (close air support to ground troops, convoys, facilities, etc.) and optional self-protection equipment including cockpit armor, radar warning (RWR), missile warning (MAWS), laser warning (LWS), and chaff/flares dispensers.
