Saudi Arabia selects C-27J for maritime patrol requirement
An artistʼs impression of the Leonardo C-27J MPA as it will feature in Saudi service fitted with an ASW and ASuW weapons package. (Leonardo)
Saudi Arabia has selected the C-27J to fulfil its airborne maritime patrol requirement, manufacturer Leonardo announced on 16 February.
The kingdom will receive four aircraft configured for the maritime patrol mission, which will include an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface vessel warfare (ASuW) weapons package.
“Leonardo will supply four C-27J maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence, providing the capabilities needed to cope with modern submarine and sea surface threats, to guarantee effective search-and-rescue (SAR) services, and to perform transport and airdrop missions,” the company said, adding that deliveries to the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) are expected to start in 2029.
While Saudi Arabia will become the 21st global operator of the C-27J, it will be the launch customer for the type's maritime weapons fit.
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