Leonardo has secured a multi-year contract with Italy’s National Armaments Directorate to provide comprehensive logistics support for the Italian Air Force’s C-27J Spartan fleet and its associated training systems. The Performance-Based contract, effective from 2026 to 2028, will ensure high operational readiness for the service’s 12 aircraft stationed in Pisa and Pratica di Mare.
Under the agreement, Leonardo will deliver full technical and maintenance support for the C-27J fleet. A key component includes sustaining the Full Motion Simulator at the International Training Centre (ITC) in Pisa, alongside providing technical and administrative management for the ITC itself. This integrated support model is designed to maximize fleet availability and training efficiency for the 46th Air Brigade.
The C-27J Spartan is recognized as a leading tactical airlifter, prized for its robustness and versatility. Powered by two powerful turboprop engines, it excels at operating from short, unprepared airstrips in challenging environments, a critical capability for front-line support and disaster response. The aircraft’s proven reliability is backed by over 275,000 flight hours in global service. Its enhanced Next Generation variant incorporates advanced avionics and aerodynamic improvements for even greater performance.
A hallmark of the Spartan is its mission adaptability. The cabin can be rapidly reconfigured into 11 different layouts using standard kits. Five core configurations—including Cargo Transport, Troop Transport, and Medical Evacuation—can be set up in under 30 minutes. Optional roles range from VIP transport and advanced firefighting to specialized Biocontainment modules, enabling a swift response to diverse national and international missions. This contract ensures the Italian Air Force can continue to leverage these unique capabilities effectively for years to come.
