Leonardo C-27J Spartan

The Leonardo C-27J Spartan is essentially a heavily modernised and more powerful version of the Aeritalia G.222 which was known as the C-27A in the USA. Co-developed between Alenia Aermacchi (now part of Leonardo) and Lockheed Martin, this medium tactical transport aircraft features the same engines as the C-130J Hercules and a modern glass cockpit. Deliveries to the Italian Air Force began in 2006 following a first flight in 1999 and since then the C-27J has been delivered to 18 nations around the globe.

The Slovak Air Force operates a fleet of two C-27J Spartan aircraft, which they introduced to service in 2018. This is the largest aircraft type they fly, and it is used for troop movements and airlifting cargo. Slovakia also used these aircraft to support civilian operations, and the fleet is able to carry out missions as part of domestic crisis management operations to the benefit of all Slovak citizens.

1. Dopravná Letka of the Slovak Air Force will once again be providing their C-27J for static display at this year’s Air Tattoo.

Photo Credit: RIAT Photographer