Two new ZAF jets delivered in Zambia

The Zambian Air Force has taken delivery of its two C-27J Spartan transport aircraft, after they were ordered in 2015. This is according to Defence news, a respected publication that covers Defence technology and business.

One of Zambia’s C-27Js, registration AF003, was seen at Lanseria International Airport on 21 August, indicating deliveries have been concluded. The first aircraft was spotted in July 2018 in Italy and the second was seen undergoing test flights in December last year at Torino Airport. It was still in Italy in mid-February this year, but in full Zambian colours with registration AF002.

Zambian C-27Js have registrations AF002 and AF003 as the serial AF001 is allocated to the Zambian Air Force’s new Gulfstream 650ER jet that first flew in February 2018 and was delivered to Zambia on 28 February this year.

It is believed to have been ordered for $65 million via Israel, where it was fitted with a self-defence system. The G650 takes over from the Challenger 604 (9J-ONE) used by the Zambian government for VIP transport. In Zambian service, the C-27Js will most likely replace the Air Force’s BAe 748s and supplement its Y-12 and MA60 transport aircraft. They will be based at Lusaka/Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, according to Scramble Magazine.

The Alenia C-27J Spartan is a military transport aircraft developed and manufactured by Leonardo’s Aircraft Division. The Spartan was developed from the G.222/C-27A, using the engines and systems of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules to provide 30% lower operating costs than the G.222 and 35% greater range. It first flew on September 24, 1999.