In addition to their patrol and rescue duties, these aircraft are intended for various other missions, such as logistic support, personnel and equipment transport, and medical evacuation. This versatility arises from the cargo cabin configuration, which allows partial utilization for tasks not requiring onboard systems. These aircraft will replace two CN-235MP currently in use within the Irish Air Corps.
Monday saw the arrival at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel of the 2nd of two Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircrafts. Total cost of €230 million. They are equipped for maritime surveillance, particularly fisheries protection. Well done to the Civil-Military team who made it happen! pic.twitter.com/8AaVqELZCn
— Department of Defence (@IRLDeptDefence) October 17, 2023
The first C-295MSA was delivered on the 27th of June, making its public debut at the 54th International Paris Air and Space Show. In December 2022, the Irish government and Airbus signed a second agreement covering the purchase and delivery of a third C-295MW in a transport configuration, aimed at relieving specialized aircraft in transport operations. This particular aircraft is expected to be delivered in 2025.
The C-295 program stands as one of Airbus’s most significant achievements in military aviation, with orders totaling 283 units, of which over 210 have been delivered. A vital industrial aspect of this project is the Airbus Poland S.A. facility in Warsaw, responsible for over 40% of the airframe construction for each unit. Additionally, a service center was established there, servicing aircraft users from Poland and other nations.
