Serbia has signed an official contract with Spain for the procurement of two C295 tactical transport airframes, becoming the 33rd operator of the Airbus-built aircraft.
The contract signing ceremony took place in Spain on February 23, during the visit of Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic to Madrid. The ceremony followed the signing of a letter of intent in November last year.
Airbus said the contract, which is worth 81 million euros according to the Serbian president, would be accompanied by a government-to-government supervision agreement between the ministries of defense of Spain and the Republic of Serbia. The agreement will aim to study the development of future defense programs between both nations.
Airbus added it was “committed to maintain and foster its close collaboration with the Republic of Serbia, which already operates Airbus military solutions.” The Balkan state operates H145M helicopters, while the H215 Super Puma is expected to be delivered this year after delays.
The two C295 aircraft, in transport configuration, will be equipped with the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics suite and will contribute to enhance the air transport capabilities of the Republic of Serbia. The Serbian Air Force transport capability is currently ensured by two Antonov aircraft inducted into service in the 1970s and 1980s.
The C295 contract, which includes 66 million euros for the aircraft and 15 million for related equipment and training, would see the first aircraft delivered in late 2023.
With this order 33 countries have already relied on the C295, Airbus said, adding that it has secured a total of 281 orders worldwide.
