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C-27J Aircraft

C-27J Aircraft

Manufacturer: Leonardo
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
  • Maximum Speed 602 km per hour
  • Range 1,850 km
  • Payload Capacity 11,500 kg
  • Crew 2 to 3

Full Specifications

1. General Information

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

2. Dimensions & Structure

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

3. Performance

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

4. Powerplant

Engine Type 2 × Rolls Royce AE 2100 D2A
Thrust (per engine) 4,637 shp
Total Thrust 9,274 shp

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity 11,500 kg
Weapons Bay None
Compatible Weapons Not armed by default
Hardpoints None

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System Optional maritime surveillance radar
Navigation Glass cockpit, GPS, INS
Electronic Warfare (EW) Defensive aids suite optional
Stealth Features None

7. Operational History

Primary Operator Italian Air Force
Conflict Usage Afghanistan, humanitarian missions
Notable Missions Disaster relief, tactical resupply

8. Additional Information

Variants MC-27J, HC-27J
Successor / Future Replacement None confirmed
Notable Features STOL capability
Estimated Operational Life 30+ years

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

8
  • Stealth Capability 8 / 10
  • Payload Capacity 8 / 10
  • Range & Endurance 8 / 10
  • Electronic Warfare 8 / 10
  • Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10

PROS

  1. Excellent short takeoff and landing performance
  2. High payload for its size class
  3. Compatible with C-130J systems
  4. Operates from austere airfields
  5. Multi mission capability

CONS

  1. Higher operating cost than light transports
  2. Limited range compared to larger airlifters
  3. Not designed for high threat combat zones
  4. Smaller cargo hold than C-130
  5. Limited global operator base

C-27J Spartan Tactical Airlifter

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.

Manufacturer

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.

Speed and Range

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.

Cost / Price

The estimated unit cost of the C-27J ranges between 50 million and 60 million USD, depending on configuration and mission systems.

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