RAAF C-27J Spartan achieve IOC
The Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF’s) C-27J Spartan fleet has achieved Initial Operating Capability (IOC), the Department of Defence announced on 16 December.
Four of ten Spartans on order have been delivered to the RAAF, where they are operated by Number 35 Squadron from RAAF Base Richmond. Following construction of dedicated facilities at RAAF Base Amberley, Number 35 Squadron will relocate in 2019.
The C-27J, which can operate from airfields that are unable to support larger transport aircraft, will enhance the Australian Defence Force’s capacity to transport people, equipment and supplies within the country and the wider region.
Chief of the Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, said that the C-27J Spartan was the missing piece in the RAAF’s air mobility matrix for tactical aircraft.
He said: ‘The arrival of the Spartan will greatly increase the mobility and flexibility for local commanders, allowing intra-theatre airlift that will bridge C-130J Hercules and CH-47 Chinook options.’
The Spartan acquisition represents a $1.6 billion investment in Australia’s airlift capability, following the retirement of the Caribou transports in 2009.
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