Aramco acquires C-27J Multi-Mission Aircraft for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Leonardo C-27J multi-mission tactical transport aircraft, with a global operational record exceeding 270,000 flight hours, is poised for expanded deployment as new prominent operators adopt the aircraft to fulfil their rigorous requirements.

Leonardo is set to deliver two C-27J multi-mission and firefighting aircraft to Aramco. These aircraft are designed for cargo transport, firefighting, oil spill response, and medical evacuation operations within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Mukamalah Aviation Company, a fully owned subsidiary of Aramco operating under the brand name "Aloula Aviation," will oversee the operation of the C-27Js and function as a service centre for this aircraft type. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027.

This recent achievement signifies the first order from a civilian operator for the C-27J in a multi-mission and firefighting configuration. It follows the model's initial success in other markets and its introduction in the Middle East. This order further demonstrates the platform's versatility, effectively combining cargo transport with firefighting and disaster response capabilities, while offering a high degree of customisation. The program benefits from ongoing investments aimed at enhancing the C-27J's capabilities and technologies, including the latest avionics and performance improvements, as well as customised solutions. This enables the model to meet the evolving and stringent requirements of primary users.

The enduring collaboration between Leonardo and Aramco in the helicopter sector, which supports the energy industry and rescue operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will be extended to include the fixed-wing business. This expansion is anticipated to further enhance the presence of the C-27J in the Middle East and Africa.

With the C-27J Next Generation Fire Fighter, Leonardo offers an innovative, high-tech solution for firefighting and disaster response, providing a turboprop aircraft able to work with other fixed and rotary wing assets. What makes the C-27J unique is the second-generation MAFFS II (Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System), a "roll-on/roll-off" transportable module that can be loaded and unloaded as required in only 90 minutes. The module consists of a 7,500-litre tank that can be refilled on the ground with water and retardant liquid in under 10 minutes. It also has a spray nozzle emerging through the left hatch of the fuselage. The C-27J Next Generation Fire Fighter is a real "ecosystem," in line with and supporting Leonardo’s sustainability plan, that is scalable and adaptable for different purposes. It is a modular tool capable of reducing costs by increasing the effectiveness of worldwide firefighting, and it includes disaster response capabilities.

The C-27J Fire Fighter demonstrates exceptional performance even at low altitudes and in adverse weather conditions. Characterised by its agility, manoeuvrability, and speed, it boasts a maximum cruising speed of 325 knots (602 km/h) and is equipped with advanced digital avionics. This aircraft is capable of Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) on short or semi-prepared runways near intervention sites, enabling it to quickly reach and operate effectively in areas where other firefighting vehicles, whether airborne or ground-based, cannot function, including remote locations and areas with limited water resources or rough seas unsuitable for "scooper" type aircraft. At an average speed of 130 knots (250 km/h), it can disperse a pressurised jet of water mixed with fire-retardant liquid, covering extensive ground with each drop. The range is adjustable, allowing the crew to tailor the mission according to the specific conditions of each fire and the terrain's topography. Furthermore, this solution extends beyond firefighting to include fire prevention capabilities.

Mukamalah Aviation Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aramco, operates under the brand name "Aloula Aviation." It is recognised as the first civil aviation company in Saudi Arabia and the second in the Middle East. The company's history dates back to 1934, when Aramco introduced the first aircraft to support oil exploration in the Kingdom's expansive deserts. Headquartered in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Aloula manages a fleet of 55 diverse aircraft types. To support its operations, Aloula maintains this extensive fleet in hangars located at strategic sites. Beyond operating and maintaining these aircraft, Aloula regularly services various airports across Saudi Arabia, some of which it fully manages and operates, along with over 300 helipads situated both onshore and offshore. Additionally, the company is an Authorised Service Centre for Leonardo's AW109 and AW139 helicopters.