Saudi Arabia Orders Four C-27J MPAs

C-27J MPA | Image: Leonardo

Leonardo S.p.A. has signed a contract to supply four C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence.

The aircraft will be delivered to the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, which will become the 21st global operator of the C-27J platform. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2029.

According to Leonardo, the C-27J MPA will provide maritime patrol, anti-submarine and surface surveillance capabilities. The aircraft will also support search and rescue (SAR), transport and airdrop missions. The contract marks the first time the C-27J MPA has been procured with maritime weapon system integration capability.

The agreement follows a separate in-country acquisition in summer 2025 of two C-27J aircraft configured for firefighting, cargo transport and medical evacuation roles for Saudi users. With the new order, the number of C-27J aircraft operated by Saudi Arabia will increase.

The C-27J MPA is based on the C-27J Spartan Next Generation platform. It includes avionics, navigation, communication, identification and self-protection systems designed for operations in military and civil airspace, including high-threat environments.

C27J operators around the world | Infographic: Leonardo

For maritime missions, the aircraft integrates a mission suite with sensors for detecting, identifying and tracking surface vessels and submarines. These systems are managed through the Leonardo Airborne Tactical Observation and Surveillance system, which provides data fusion and real-time information sharing with control centres, including in Beyond Line Of Sight (BLOS) conditions.

The aircraft can carry a range of maritime weapons, including torpedoes, anti-ship missiles and depth charges, depending on mission requirements.

Leonardo states that the mission system consoles can be removed, allowing the aircraft cabin to be reconfigured for transport, airdrop and medical evacuation roles. C-27J aircraft configured for maritime duties are already in service with the United States Coast Guard.

The C-27J fleet has accumulated more than 290,000 flight hours worldwide.