First Irish C295MPA

On 17 August 2021, the first C295MPA (construction number 211) for the Aer Chór na hÉireann (IAC, Irish Air Corps) was noted at the Airbus Defence and Space final assembly line at Sevilla-San Pablo (Spain).

On 13 December 2019, the IAC signed a contract with Defence and Space for two C295MPA Maritime Patrol Aircraft. The new aircraft will operate primarily in the Maritime Defence and Security (MDSO) role and will replace the current CN235M-100 maritime patrol aircraft, which have been in service since 1994 and amassed over 20,000 flight hours per aircraft.

The C295MPA is a versatile platform which will provide the Irish Air Corps greater capability in the MDSO, Air Ambulance, Logistics and Military roles. The aircraft will be based at Baldonnel/Casement and operated by 101 Squadron 'Maritime Squadron' (1st Operations Wing). The delivery date is not known yet.

Photo by Airbus Defence and Space