

| Name | C-27J Spartan |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Introduction / In Service Since | 2009 |
| Status | Active |
| Category | Tactical Airlift |
| Crew | 2 to 3 |
| Unit Cost | 50 to 60 million USD |
| Length | 22.7 m |
| Wingspan | 28.7 m |
| Height | 9.6 m |
| Wing Area | 82 m² |
| Empty Weight | 17,000 kg approx |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 31,800 kg |
| Maximum Speed | 602 km per hour |
| Range | 1,850 km |
| Combat Radius | 1,000 km approx |
| Service Ceiling | 30,000 ft |
| Rate of Climb | 12 m per second |
| Engine Type | 2 × Rolls Royce AE 2100 D2A |
| Thrust (per engine) | 4,637 shp |
| Total Thrust | 9,274 shp |
| Internal Payload Capacity | 11,500 kg |
| Weapons Bay | None |
| Compatible Weapons | Not armed by default |
| Hardpoints | None |
| Radar System | Optional maritime surveillance radar |
| Navigation | Glass cockpit, GPS, INS |
| Electronic Warfare (EW) | Defensive aids suite optional |
| Stealth Features | None |
| Primary Operator | Italian Air Force |
| Conflict Usage | Afghanistan, humanitarian missions |
| Notable Missions | Disaster relief, tactical resupply |
| Variants | MC-27J, HC-27J |
| Successor / Future Replacement | None confirmed |
| Notable Features | STOL capability |
| Estimated Operational Life | 30+ years |
The C-27J Spartan is a twin engine tactical transport aircraft built for rapid airlift, short runway operations, and frontline logistics support. Designed to operate where larger cargo aircraft cannot, the Spartan combines rugged performance with modern avionics. It fills the gap between light utility transports and larger platforms like the C-130, offering flexibility for disaster relief, troop deployment, and special operations missions.
The aircraft is widely used for military airlift, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance, and command and control roles.
The C-27J is produced by Leonardo, an Italian aerospace and defense company. It is developed from the earlier G.222 platform, with major upgrades including engines and avionics shared with the C-130J. In the United States, the aircraft was operated by the U.S. Air Force and later transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard for maritime surveillance missions.
Powered by two Rolls Royce AE 2100 D2A turboprop engines, the C-27J reaches a maximum speed of about 602 km per hour. It has a range of approximately 1,850 km with standard payload and can operate from short and semi prepared airstrips thanks to its strong landing gear and high lift wing design.
Its service ceiling is around 30,000 feet, and it can carry up to 11,500 kg of cargo, including vehicles, palletized freight, or 60 troops.
The estimated unit cost of the C-27J ranges between 50 million and 60 million USD, depending on configuration and mission systems.
Get real time update about this post category directly on your device, subscribe now.
The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data.TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content.We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content.External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More