Ireland welcomes second Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

On October 17, 2023, the Irish Air Corps received its second Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), as part of a €290 million deal inked in 2019. The aircraft was produced at Airbus' facility in Seville, Spain, and its arrival at Casement Aerodrome near Dublin marks a significant milestone for Ireland's defense capabilities. A third unit, intended for cargo and troop transport, is expected to be delivered later this year.
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The Irish Air Corps has received its second Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), as part of a €290 million deal inked in 2019 (Picture source: Irish Air Corps)

The acquisition of the Airbus C295 MPA is part of a broader effort to modernize the Irish defense forces. The new aircraft will replace the two CASA CN235-100 MPAs that have been in service since 1994. The C295 is an advanced version of the CN235 and offers enhanced capabilities for maritime surveillance, particularly in fisheries protection.

Launched in 2001, the C295 is a multi-role aircraft used in humanitarian missions, rapid intervention force deployments, maritime surveillance, and territorial security. It can carry up to 71 paratroopers in its 12.7-meter-long cargo hold or, alternatively, five large pallets or ten smaller ones. The aircraft has a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots (480 kilometers per hour) and a maximum payload capacity of 23.2 tons.

The contract for these patrol aircraft was awarded to Airbus Defence and Space in December 2019 following a public tender. The total contract, including both Maritime Patrol Aircraft, associated training, ground equipment, and spare parts, is valued at €230 million, VAT included. The second Maritime Patrol Aircraft is scheduled for delivery later this year.

The C295 comes equipped with a comprehensive military communications package and has an operational ceiling listed at 30,000 hours. It can reach a range exceeding 2,300 nautical miles, making it a versatile asset for the Irish Air Corps.

The third unit of the C295, expected to be delivered later this year, will be configured for cargo and troop transport, special operations, and medical evacuation. This will further enhance the operational flexibility and capabilities of the Irish defense forces.