EADS (CASA) developed a maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) version of the C-295 multi-role military transport aircraft, known as the C-295MPA or C-295 Persuader. Its avionics are based on the company’s Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS), which includes a search radar and turret-mounted IR and optoelectronic detection devices.
The FITS system is removable, allowing the aircraft to be easily reconfigured for transport missions. Upon customer request, an identification system, electronic support measures, and signal intelligence equipment are installed, with provisions for sonobuoys and a magnetometer.
The C-295 Persuader can be equipped for anti-submarine and other operations, utilizing six underwing hardpoints for ordnance. The Store Management System (SMS) functions in conjunction with FITS, enabling the deployment of sonobuoys for submarine detection and the launch of torpedoes.
Advanced Capabilities and Global Deployment
In April 2010, three C-295 Persuader aircraft were delivered to Chile and five to Portugal. Greece is also considering acquiring the C-295MPA as its new maritime patrol platform. In the summer of the same year, the aircraft was certified by Spain’s National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA).
In spring 2010, Airbus successfully conducted the first torpedo drop test from a new modification of the C-295 MPA maritime patrol aircraft. This aircraft is produced by its Spanish subsidiary, CASA, and the torpedo launch, which involved a parachute-assisted drop, was successful. Following further technology refinement, C-295 MPA customer nations will be able to utilize this capability.
Performance and Variants
The C-295 MPA can reach speeds of up to 580 kilometers per hour and has a range of up to 5,200 kilometers. With an 11-hour patrol endurance, the aircraft boasts a payload capacity of approximately nine tons.
In addition to the patrol version, a dedicated anti-submarine warfare variant, designated C-294 ASW, was also developed. Delivery of these aircraft to the UAE was planned, but the contract was canceled at the last minute.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | C-295MPA |
| Wingspan, m | 25.81 |
| Aircraft length, m | 24.50 |
| Aircraft height, m | 8.65 |
| Wing area, m2 | 59.10 |
| Maximum takeoff weight, kg | 23200 |
| Engine type | 2 Turboprops Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G |
| Power, kW | 2 x 1975 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 580 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 4 82 |
| Practical range, km | 5200 |
| Patrol endurance, h | 11 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 7900 |
| Crew, crew | 3 |
| Armament | Combat load – 3500 kg on 6 hardpoints |
Image and diagram gallery of the C-295MPA Persuader
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