ATR MP tested as paratrooper drop platform
Leonardo has conducted testing of the suitability of its ATR MP maritime patrol aircraft to be used for paratrooper jump missions using a door installed at the rear of the cabin.
Carried out at the end of July, testing included launching paratroopers and dummies, plus demonstrating recovery procedures during an emergency.
The ATR MP can be quickly reconfigured to carry out different missions, while keeping the operating costs low and reliability high, according to Leonardo, adding that this is due to it deriving from the civil ATR 42/72-600 turboprop.
The heart of the mission suite is Leonardo's Airborne Tactical Observation and Surveillance system that manages the sensors onboard, combining the information gathered and presenting a data fusion picture to provide situational awareness to the operators.
The aircraft has an endurance of up to 10h, and can be equipped with a self-protection system.
The ATR MP is operated in various configurations by users including the Guardia di Finanza, Italian coast guard and Italian air force, as well as a number of export customers.
Mission sets include maritime patrol, search and identification of surface ships, search and rescue, monitoring and intervention of ecological disasters and the protection of territorial waters, plus the prevention of drug trafficking, piracy and smuggling.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![AUKUS update: Australian sovereignty is “paramount” as Trump declares “full steam ahead”]()
AUKUS update: Australian sovereignty is “paramount” as Trump declares “full steam ahead”
AUKUS has been under the spotlight this week as US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had their first face-to-face meeting.
-
![US Navy acquires additional Most Aggressive Features for Virginia-class submarines]()
US Navy acquires additional Most Aggressive Features for Virginia-class submarines
A follow-on contract awarded to Collins covers the supply of up to eight MAFs to be delivered from 2027.
-
![Singapore christens first Victory-class multi-role combat vessel]()
Singapore christens first Victory-class multi-role combat vessel
The new mothership’s modular design ensures it meets the navy’s needs for future situations in both war and peace.
-
![Thales’ multirole missile delivers “tactical excellence” for UK Royal Navy]()
Thales’ multirole missile delivers “tactical excellence” for UK Royal Navy
The latest trials of Thales’ Lightweight Multirole Missile in two locations proved its effectiveness in combatting real-world uncrewed threats.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s SEA Torpedo Launcher Systems to enter production in Ottawa in November]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s SEA Torpedo Launcher Systems to enter production in Ottawa in November
The article acceptance testing for the TLS is scheduled for the end of 2026.
