International aerospace, defense and security company Leonardo is exhibiting at the first edition of the World Defense Show 2022 (WDS), presenting its cross-domain capabilities and technological solutions to attendees from the Gulf Region and beyond. Among Leonardo’s fixed-wing aircraft programs present at WDS, the C-27J Spartan NG is exhibited at the static area (Pad F), still unrivaled in its category in terms of mission flexibility, in its Next Generation version it features comprehensive new avionics and aerodynamic developments, for improved operational efficiency and even better performance.
The C-27J Spartan is a military transport aircraft developed and manufactured by Leonardo’s Aircraft Division (formerly Alenia Aermacchi until 2016). It is an advanced derivative of Alenia Aeronautica’s earlier G.222 (C-27A Spartan in U.S. service), equipped with the engines and various other systems also used on the larger Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. In addition to the standard transport configuration, specialized variants of the C-27J have been developed for maritime patrol, search and rescue, C3 ISR (command, control, communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance), fire support/ground-attack and electronic warfare missions.
Widely recognised as the most effective multi-role military transport aircraft in its size class, the C-27J Next Generation features new avionics and aerodynamic developments for greater efficiency and improved operating performance. the c-27J’s performance and operating efficiency are enabled by new avionics, featuring a glass cockpit with five multi-functional colour screens, a radar system for tactical transport missions and advanced communication systems. Used in the most challenging operational environments, from the high altitudes of the Andes to Afghanistan, the c-27J’s performance and operating efficiency are enabled by new avionics.
With the best descent and climb rates (4,000ft/min and 2,500 ft/min), it can perform tactical manoeuvres at 3g and is qualified for short take-off and landing (STOL) on snowy, sandy and unprepared runways. The system architecture guarantees interoperability with other transport aircraft and can be easily integrated with in-flight refuelling, self-protection, secure communications and ballistic protection, allowing the aircraft to operate in high threat environments, transporting materials, light vehicles and personnel to wherever they are needed. The C-27J can operate in complete autonomy thanks to its Auxiliary Power Unit (APU).
