The C-27J fleet has accumulated more than 290,000 flight hours globally and is used by leading operators to meet demanding operational requirements. The aircraft ordered by Saudi Arabia will provide capabilities to address modern submarine and surface threats, ensure effective Search and Rescue services, and carry out transport and airdrop missions.
The agreement strengthens the long-standing relationship between Leonardo and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and increases the number of C-27Js ordered by Saudi users. It follows the Summer 2025 in-country acquisition of two aircraft dedicated to firefighting, cargo transport and medical evacuation tasks.
The contract also marks the first procurement of the C-27J MPA with maritime weapon system integration capability. This development further demonstrates the platform’s versatility in combining transport, disaster response and multi-domain surveillance capabilities.
Leonardo stated that the C-27J programme continues to benefit from ongoing investment aimed at expanding mission capabilities, improving performance and embedding advanced technologies. These efforts are intended to deliver task-oriented, customer-tailored solutions capable of meeting the most challenging requirements of primary users.
The C-27J MPA retains all the features of the C-27J Spartan Next Generation platform, including advanced avionics, navigation, communication, identification and self-protection systems. These systems enable safe and efficient operations in all weather and lighting conditions, in both military and civil controlled airspace, including high-threat environments.
For multi-domain surveillance, the C-27J MPA integrates a dedicated mission suite with sensors optimised for detecting, identifying and tracking surface and submarine targets. The suite is managed by Leonardo’s Airborne Tactical Observation and Surveillance system with data fusion capabilities, and is supported by a comprehensive communication system that enables real-time data sharing with control centres and cooperation with other units, including in Beyond Line Of Sight conditions.
In addition to its patrol and surveillance functions, the C-27J MPA can carry a significant weapons payload, including torpedoes, anti-ship missiles and depth charges, according to mission requirements. By removing the mission management consoles and other elements of the mission suite, the aircraft can be reconfigured for transport, airdrop and medical evacuation missions typical of the baseline C-27J Spartan Next Generation.
C-27Js configured for maritime roles are already in service with the US Coast Guard. The new order further extends the operational footprint of the aircraft in the maritime domain.
