Andy Nativi/GENOA
Lockheed Martin Alenia Tactical Transport Systems (LMATTS) is stepping up its C-27J Spartan marketing campaign in Italy as it prepares the first prototype for a maiden flight late next month.
Despite Italian air force claims that it has no funds available for even a small batch of C-27Js - re-engined, updated Aeritalia G222s - LMATTS is keen to secure a deal, aware that export sales are made easier after selection by the "home" air force.
After lengthy discussions, the air force has agreed to take part in flight test and development work. It is also "leasing" a G222 to LMATTS for conversion into the second of three C-27J prototypes.
Once the 750h flight test programme is completed, this aircraft will be returned to the air force as a C-27J. The Italian air force test squadron will observe the programme and receive relevant data.
Italy's transport master plan had envisaged reducing the number of G222 squadrons by one, to a single unit of 18 aircraft, and augmenting 12 Lockheed Martin C-130Hs with 18C-130Js on order. The older Hercules are undergoing a life extension programme that would keep them in service until late in the next decade.
After that, they and the G222s would be replaced by moreC-130Js, or a new large transport such as the Airbus A400M or the Antonov An-70/7X.
Support costs for the airlifter fleet, aircrew retention issues and the lack of space at the main transport base have forced a rethink.
A scheme is under study to allow the air force to acquire 15-18 new C-27Js. The money will probably not come from air force funds, but from the industry ministry.
In addition, the air force wants five years of integrated logistic support and spares, following its experience supporting 15 Aermacchi MB339CDs handed over by the industry ministry. Alenia would also take back all the G222s, or at least those airframes with life available, and try to sell them on the secondhand market.
Acquiring new C-27Js will have a knock-on effect on the pan-European A400Mprogramme as Italy will require only 18 A400Ms or additional C-130Js. Officially, however, Italy has stated a need for at least 44 A400Ms.
Creating a fourth transport squadron would increase the requirement to 24 aircraft, but the air force will have to bear the expense of three sets of logistic support, personnel training and operating costs - one for each type.
Source: Flight International
