Italy's Guardia di Finanza customs body has ordered an ATR 72-600 for maritime patrol missions, to be outfitted by prime contractor Leonardo.
Valued at €44 million ($51.2 million), including training and logistics support, the deal could eventually reach a total value of €250 million if an unspecified number of options are exercised.
An ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft has a list price of around $26 million.
Delivery of the ATR 72MP will take place in 2019, says Leonardo. The Guardia di Finanza already operates four smaller ATR 42MPs.
The twin-engine turboprop will be capable of performing a number of roles, including maritime patrol, search and rescue, anti-piracy and anti-drug smuggling operations, and surveillance of territorial waters.
Italy's air force already operates a version of the ATR 72MP, which it designates as the P-72A.
ATR is a joint venture between Airbus and Leonardo.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
