PNG seeks to resurrect languishing CN-235 transports
This is one of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force’s CN-235s that is urgently in need of refurbishment. (Photo: PNG Air Transport Wing via Facebook)
The refurbishment of two CN-235 transport aircraft, if it can go ahead, would greatly boost the airlift capacity of PNG’s military.
In 2023, Papua New Guinea (PNG) will attempt to restore its two CN-235M-100 airlifters to operational status, after years of disrepair and neglect.
As part of the country’s 2023 national budget, $5 million has been allocated to restore them, after years of similar efforts failed to draw full resourcing.
The PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) originally procured both aircraft in the early 1990s from Indonesian Aerospace, in a bid to enhance its transport capability in a country where airlift is king due to an underdeveloped road network and remote inland areas.
Despite the importance of the capability, budgetary constraints and a
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![France air focus: Lower-cost sovereign capabilities propel $11.38 billion UAV market]()
France air focus: Lower-cost sovereign capabilities propel $11.38 billion UAV market
France is estimated to be Europe’s second-highest spender on UAVs, with a market focused on domestic production, loitering munitions and lower-cost sovereign systems. Its spending profile highlights substantial future market opportunities while reflecting broader industry trends.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Helicopters and CUAS set to dominate as Europe advances rearmament efforts]()
Eurosatory 2026: Helicopters and CUAS set to dominate as Europe advances rearmament efforts
The biennial show in Paris will focus heavily on autonomous technology, counter-drone solutions and helicopters, as countries ramp up defence budgets and focus on modernising defence capabilities.
-
![Hezbollah’s fibre-optic drones expose Israel’s counter-UAV gap in southern Lebanon]()
Hezbollah’s fibre-optic drones expose Israel’s counter-UAV gap in southern Lebanon
Israel is working to close a counter-drone capability gap exposed by Hezbollah's fibre-optic systems, drawing on battlefield lessons from Ukraine to replace improvised defences with targeted solutions.
