Piaggio Aero Industries has delivered its third and final transport and maritime surveillance version of the P180 Avanti to the Italian navy. The modified Avanti I features a rapidly convertible transport and surveillance kit including a FLIR Systems SeaFLIR II thermal/daylight imaging system installed under the rear fuselage and an on-board control station.
The navy purchased the aircraft for transport and liaison duties, with their secondary surveillance and reconnaissance mission to be conducted alongside sensor-equipped platforms such as the AgustaWestland EH101 helicopter.
The navy's first two P180s were delivered last year configured for transport duties, but will soon receive the new surveillance system. Piaggio provides maintenance and logistics services for the aircraft at Pratica di Mare airport near Rome.
LUCA PERUZZI/GENOA
Source: Flight International
