ATR displayed the first of five ATR42MPs destined for the Italian customs service. Heavily modified for maritime surveillance by Alenia Difesa, the defence arm of ATR's Italian partner, the aircraft has an underfuselage radar, a television and infrared sensor in a turret within the starboard undercarriage fairing and two mission stations. Other modifications include a large searchlight and a door that can be opened in-flight to allow deployment of search and rescue equipment. The primary role of the aircraft will be to look out for and intercept illegal drug supplies in the Mediterranean.
Source: Flight International
