Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
128. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on the acquisition of Airbus C295W; the expected delivery date; if the aircraft will have the capacity to participate in humanitarian air drops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11967/24]
View answerStrategic airlift capability has been prioritised as a capability for investment following Government approval of the Commission on Defence Report as part of the move to (Level Of Ambition) LOA 2 capability.
Two new C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft were delivered in 2023 and are capable of being configured in a strategic airlift transport role if required.
In addition, a contract was recently awarded to Airbus at a cost of €59 million, excluding VAT, for the provision of a new Fixed Wing Military Transport Aircraft for the Defence Forces. The aircraft is currently being manufactured and delivery is expected in mid-2025.
The Airbus C295W aircraft is highly versatile and will provide a dedicated asset to support the Defence Forces military airlift transport requirements and provide a wide contingent capability. The aircraft will enable the Air Corps to provide a wide range of services including logistics support and transport of troops and equipment, medical evacuation and air ambulance, Special Operations Forces operations and a general utility role.
The aircraft can be made capable of transporting and deploying palletised cargo from the air. The aircraft can be configured with the required Cargo Handling System and is equipped with a rear cargo door which can be opened in flight.
The aircraft avionics system is also capable of being programmed with the various parameters to allow for the accuracy required with aerial delivery operations.
