Aircraft
Airbus Military Sells C295s To Oman
A C295 in MPA configuration undertakes launch trials with a Mk 46 torpedo. (Photo: Airbus Military)
A C295 in MPA configuration undertakes launch trials with a Mk 46 torpedo. (Photo: Airbus Military)

Airbus Military has sold five C295 tactical transports and three C295 maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) to the Royal Air Force of Oman. The contract was signed on May 21 after negotiations that had originally been expected to conclude late last year. Oman is Airbus Military’s first customer for the C295 among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It is buying the type to expand its tactical transport capability and to improve significantly its maritime capabilities in a region dogged by piracy, smuggling and illegal immigration. The Omani Police already operate the C295’s smaller sibling, the CN235.