Airbus Military has delivered the first of four CN235MPA to Mexico

C-295s to Ghana, CN235s to Mexico, as Airbus Military Predicts Steady Demand for Light-Medium Transports

Airbus Military has delivered the first of four CN235 Maritime Patrol Aircraft to Mexico, and the first of two C295 medium airlifters to Ghana.

The aircraft for the Mexican Navy were contracted via EADS North America and funded by a joint U.S.-Mexican government program known as the Merida Initiative. They are fitted with a search radar and FLIR system, and the maritime automatic identification system (AIS). These sensors are integrated and displayed to operators by the Airbus Military Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS).

The company said that the STOL and rough-field capabilities of the C295 would allow the Ghana Air Force to fly into remote locations not previously accessible. The second aircraft for Ghana will be delivered in the first quarter of next year, and the three remaining aircraft for Mexico by the end of June.

The Mexican Navy previously took delivery of two CN235 transports, and two more went to the Mexican Police. The Mexican Air Force and Navy also operate nine C295 and six C212 aircraft.

Airbus Military has now sold 85 C295s to 14 operators, and 211 CN235s to 32 operators in 20 countries. In a recent briefing, the company said there are 3,215 aircraft in service worldwide in the light-medium military transport category, with an average age of 24 years. Airbus Military predicts the sale of 1,250 such aircraft over the next 30 years, and expects to supply 50 percent of them.


Source: by Chris Pocock - November 25, 2011 - Aviation International News (www.ainonline.com)

Photo: Airbus Military has delivered the first of four CN235 maritime patrol aircraft to Mexico. (Photo: Airbus Military)

(25.11.2011)