The countries of the Middle East are very interested in the new Italian gunship produced by Alenia Aermacchi, the MC-27J, a multi-role platform based on the C-27J tactical transport aircraft Spartan several air forces are also in service, including the Italian Air Force.
As stated by the Italian company a Defense News, "The aircraft represents the ideal solution for nations focused on border control and the fight against terrorism".
The MC-27J, compared to the expensive counterparts, would offer the same capabilities, at a lower price (slightly less than 60 million dollars per specimen). The MC-27J uses modular kits that operators can easily install or remove according to the required mission profile. The platform can play the role of gunboat and freight transport. It can conduct ISR, ISTAR, search and rescue and electronic warfare operations. Each type of configuration can be set up within 60 minutes. The aircraft is equipped with advanced electro-optical sensors and GAU-23 weapon systems from 30 mm, the same as those fitted to American AC-130 gunboats, precision guided.
"The plane flies well above the 10.000 feet, thus sheltered from enemy ground fire. Its accuracy is ensured by the fully integrated on-board suite. The eight-hour autonomy allows us to stay in the operating area for the time required to complete the mission ".
Its small size makes it an ideal platform for armed support for the shadow operations of special departments. In the 2008, even theAir Force Special Operations Command proposed the acquisition of gunboats Spartan to replace the Spectre. Proposal for the new AC-27J Stinger II retreat and funds used for the purchase of reconfigurable modules for the current American gunboats in service.
The Italian Air Force has a fleet of 12 C-27J Spartan. Alenia is planning to upgrade three of these aircraft to the M version.
- Spartan they are in service with the Italian Air Force, the US Air Force and with Greece, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Romania, Morocco, Mexico, Australia, Peru, the Slovak Republic, Chad and a reserved African customer. Altogether, they were ordered 80 aircraft.
(images: Alenia Aermacchi)
