Poland has awarded Airbus a contract to upgrade its fleet of 16 C-295M military tactical transport aircraft for $107.8 million.
Poland has awarded Airbus a contract to upgrade its fleet of 16 C-295M military tactical transport aircraft for 102.7 million euros ($107.8 million).
The upgrade will enhance key systems across the fleet, including avionics, communications, and airdrop capabilities.
Additionally, the aircraft will receive an upgraded identification friend-or-foe system and enhanced self-protection measures as part of the deal.
The modernization program will be carried out in two phases: the first two C-295Ms will be upgraded in Spain, with the remaining 14 undergoing upgrades in Warsaw.
The contract will be executed over an eight-year period, with the first upgrades scheduled to begin next year.
A Proven ‘Workhorse’
The C-295M is a versatile twin-turboprop transport aircraft, capable of carrying up to 8 tons (17,637 pounds) of payload or 70 fully-equipped troops.
It can cruise at an altitude of 30,000 feet (9,144 meters) and fly at a maximum cruising speed of 260 knots (481 kilometers/299 miles per hour).
The aircraft is also capable of short take-off and landing, enabling it to operate from unpaved, soft, and sand/grass airstrips.
In addition to its core role as a troop and cargo transport, the C-295M is capable of performing maritime patrol, airborne warning, surveillance, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation missions.
Warsaw first acquired eight C-295Ms in 2001 and has since expanded its fleet with additional orders. The planes are operated by the 8th Airlift Base in southern Poland.
