C295 Aircraft

Manufacturer: Airbus Defence and Space
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
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Maximum Speed 509 km/h (316 mph)
Range 2,300 km (1,430 miles)
Payload Capacity 9,250 kg (20,400 lbs)
Crew 2–3

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	C295 Tactical Transport Aircraft
Manufacturer	Airbus Defence and Space
Country of Origin	Spain
Introduction / In Service Since	1999 / Active
Status	Operational
Category	Tactical Transport
Crew	2–3
Unit Cost	~$25 million

2. Dimensions & Structure

Length	24.5 m
Wingspan	25.8 m
Height	8.7 m
Wing Area	63.5 m²
Empty Weight	7,800 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	23,200 kg

3. Performance

Maximum Speed	509 km/h (316 mph)
Range	2,300 km (1,430 miles)
Combat Radius	1,300 km (810 miles)
Service Ceiling	25,000 ft (7,620 m)
Rate of Climb	8 m/s

4. Powerplant

Engine Type	2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprops
Thrust (per engine)	2,645 shp
Total Thrust	5,290 shp

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity	9,250 kg (20,400 lbs)
Weapons Bay	N/A
Compatible Weapons	Optional light defensive systems
Hardpoints	0–2 for light external payload

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System	Optional maritime/patrol radar
Navigation	GPS/INS with autopilot
Electronic Warfare (EW)	Optional defensive aids
Stealth Features	None

7. Operational History

Primary Operator	Spain, Poland, Indonesia, Canada, Brazil
Conflict Usage	Peacekeeping, humanitarian, tactical missions
Notable Missions	Disaster relief, troop transport in UN missions

8. Additional Information

Variants	C295M, C295W (winglets), C295 Persuader
Successor / Future Replacement	Future medium airlifters under evaluation
Notable Features	STOL, multi-role, modern avionics
Estimated Operational Life	30+ years

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

6.4

Stealth Capability 4 / 10
Payload Capacity 6 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10
Electronic Warfare 6 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10

PROS

Multi-role capability (cargo, troop, medevac, surveillance)
STOL performance for unprepared runways
Modern avionics and mission systems
High reliability and low operational cost
Wide international adoption

CONS

Limited payload compared to larger transports
Not supersonic; slower than jet transports
Minimal defensive armament
Requires trained crew for optimal operations
Less suitable for strategic intercontinental missions

C295 Tactical Transport Aircraft

The C295 Aircraft is a versatile medium tactical transport developed by Airbus Defence and Space, designed for a wide range of military operations. Originating from Spain, this twin-turboprop aircraft is engineered to meet modern tactical airlift requirements, offering flexibility, reliability, and cost efficiency for defense forces worldwide.

Manufacturer and Capabilities

Produced by Airbus Defence and Space, the C295 is widely used for troop transport, medical evacuation, cargo delivery, maritime patrol, and surveillance missions. It combines short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance with a robust airframe capable of operating from unprepared runways. Its maximum speed reaches approximately 509 km/h (316 mph), with a range of up to 2,300 km (1,430 miles) and a service ceiling of 25,000 ft. The aircraft can carry up to 71 troops, 50 paratroopers, or 9,250 kg (20,400 lbs) of cargo, making it ideal for rapid deployment and logistics support.

Technology and Operational Use

Equipped with advanced avionics, including modern navigation systems, mission management computers, and optional radar for maritime surveillance, the C295 is optimized for both day and night operations. Its low operational cost and high reliability make it a preferred choice for nations requiring a multi-role tactical airlifter. Many operators have deployed the C295 in peacekeeping, humanitarian, and military operations, highlighting its adaptability across varied missions.

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