Airbus C-295 MSA

The CASA C-295, now Airbus C295 is a medium transport aircraft that was developed from the CN-235 medium transport which was originally developed for the Spanish and Indonesian Air Forces. The key differences between the types being that the C2295 has a stretched airframe and more powerful engines providing a 50% increase in cargo carrying capability. Following its first flight in November 1997, the C295 has been ordered by over 35 militaries worldwide. In addition to its primary transport role, the C-295 has either been developed for or proposed in a variety of different roles including maritime patrol, search and rescue, AWACS, as a gunship, and as an aerial refuelling tanker.

Ireland has begun replacing its CASA CN-235MP fleet with a pair of Airbus C295MSA Maritime Patrol variant. Both aircraft were delivered by the end of 2023 and a third standard C295M has been ordered which will be delivered in 2025. The aircraft will primarily be used for fisheries protection but will also provide a secondary logistical transport role for the Irish Air Corps.

The Irish Air Corps will be sending one of their brand new C295MSAs for static display for the first time at this year’s Air Tattoo.

Photo Credit: Irish Air Corp