Thailand is expanding its C295 tactical transport fleet to five aircraft after ordering two additional platforms from Airbus.
Since 2016, three C295 aircraft used for cargo and troop transport have been in service with the Royal Thai Army. Meanwhile, the next two aircraft will be operated by the Royal Thai Air Force’s 46th Wing Division at Phitsanulok air base.
The first delivery is slated for the first half of 2029, following assembly at Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Seville, Spain.
Airbus has partnered with Thai Aviation Industries to support maintenance of the C295 fleet.
Transport Aircraft
Airbus’ C295 is a medium-range twin-turboprop tactical military transport aircraft featuring a 12.69-meter (42-foot) pressurized cabin and retractable landing gear.
It is capable of carrying up to 70 troops or 8,000 kilograms (17,637 pounds) of payload at a top cruising speed of 260 knots (299 miles/482 kilometers per hour).
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines, the C295 can fly at up to 30,000 feet (9,144 meters), conduct short take-off and landing operations from unpaved and austere airstrips, and remain airborne for up to 13 hours.
