The Ministry of Interior of Saudi Arabia has purchased in open competition, and after carrying out a complete evaluation, four C295W aircraft to enhance its capabilities. The C295W has been chosen based on its demonstrated excellent operational capabilities in hot and severe conditions and its proven affordable maintenance and operational costs.

“We are very proud that the C295W is joining the Airbus A330 MRTT Multi-Role Tanker Transport and CN235 transports previously ordered by Saudi Arabia. We greatly appreciate the confidence shown in the C295W by a nation with long expertise in operating military aircraft in desert conditions”, said Antonio Rodríguez Barberán, Head of Commercial for Military Aircraft.

Together with the previous orders received from Algeria, Egypt, Jordan and Oman, this new order from Saudi Arabia cements the C295’s position as the market-leading medium transport and patrol aircraft in the Middle East and North Africa region.

In May 2013, Airbus Military launched the new series of its best-selling C295 medium transport and surveillance aircraft - the C295W.

Featuring winglets and uprated engines as standard, the new model will provide operators with enhanced performance in all flight phases but is particularly aimed at those operating at “hot and high“ airfields where payload increases in excess of 1,000kg are promised.

In intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) roles such as airborne early warning (AEW), the enhancements will increase endurance by 30-60min and permit an operating altitude up to 2,000ft higher than now.

The new features also provide an overall reduction in fuel consumption of around 4% depending on configuration and conditions.

The new generation C295 is an ideal aircraft for defence and civic mission to the benefit of society, such as humanitarian actions, maritime patrol, and environmental surveillance missions, amongst others.

Thanks to its robustness and reliability, and with simple systems, this medium sized tactical airlifter provides wide versatility and flexibility, necessary for personnel, troop and bulky/palletized cargo transportation, casualty evacuation, communication and logistic duties or certified air-dropping capabilities. Its mix of dual technology civil/military equipment ensure success on demanding tactical mission, growth potential for future equipment as well as compatibility with the latest civil airspace environment. The C295 is part of Airbus Military’s family of light and medium airlifters which also include the smaller NC212i and CN235 platforms.