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| RAAF Upgrades Avionics of C-27J Spartan Aircraft Fleet |
Canberra - The Australian government and Leonarda from Italy have signed a contract to upgrade the avionics of the Australian Air To Air Force (RAAF) C-27J Spartan aircraft. The $70 million Australian contract will replace and upgrade the radio capabilities on board the aircraft. Further enhancing the overall safety and suitability of the C-27J platform.
For your information, the RAAF has 10 C-27J Spartans operated by Squadron No. 35 with its base at RAAF Amberley. The aircraft has been in RAAF service since its first arrival in Australia in 2015. Australia purchased the Spartan for light tactical airlift, replacing the Caribou fleet which was removed from RAAF service in 2009.
The C-27J Spartan can operate from unprepared airstrips to support humanitarian missions in remote locations. This aircraft, which is smaller than the C-130 Hercules, has multiple roles. Starting from cargo transportation, troop transport, airdrop, to medical evacuation.
Head of the RAAF Aerospace Systems Division, Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Leon Phillips said, the C-27J Spartan is one of the important capabilities of the RAAF. Enhancing the cryptographic radio functionality of the C-27J platform, he said, would ensure the availability of secure communications, including interoperability with key strategic partners and intelligence networks, as well as enhancing overall security for RAAF personnel.
Leonardo was selected by Australia as the main contractor to carry out this upgrade. The company is considered to have the special knowledge and expertise needed to make major modifications to the C-27, apart from being a manufacturer of this aircraft. The RAAF C-27J Spartan avionics upgrade will begin in September 2023 at RAAF Base Amberley. Overall work will be completed in 2026.