This article is based on an official press release from Leonardo.

Saudi Arabia Orders Four Armed C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft

The Ministry of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has signed a contract with Leonardo for four C-27J Spartan aircraft configured for maritime patrol (MPA). According to the company’s announcement on February 16, 2026, the new fleet will be operated by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) to enhance the nation’s maritime security and multi-domain capabilities.

Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2029. This acquisition makes Saudi Arabia the 21st operator of the C-27J platform worldwide. The deal follows a previous contract signed in the summer of 2025, in which the Saudi military acquired two C-27Js configured for firefighting, cargo transport, and medical evacuation.

The agreement marks a significant technical milestone for the C-27J program. Leonardo stated that this is the first time the MPA variant has been procured with full maritime weapon system integration, allowing the aircraft to carry munitions such as anti-ship missiles and torpedoes.

Expanding Naval Capabilities

The new aircraft are intended to address a wide range of modern maritime threats. According to Leonardo, the C-27J MPA will provide the Royal Saudi Naval Forces with capabilities for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), alongside standard Search and Rescue (SAR) and surveillance missions.

The aircraft will be based on the C-27J Spartan Next Generation platform, which features upgraded avionics and self-protection systems. Despite the specialized maritime configuration, the aircraft will retain the flexibility to perform tactical transport and airdrop missions, a core strength of the Spartan airframe.

“This significant achievement confirms the strong bond between Leonardo and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, increasing the number of C-27Js ordered by KSA users… It also marks the first time the C-27J MPA is procured with maritime weapon system integration capability.”

, Leonardo Press Release

Technical Specifications and Weaponization

The C-27J MPA is equipped with a dedicated mission suite centered on the Leonardo ATOS (Airborne Tactical Observation and Surveillance) system. This system manages onboard sensors to detect, identify, and track both surface and underwater targets. The aircraft also features data fusion capabilities and a communication suite designed for interoperability with other units, including Beyond Line Of Sight (BLOS) operations.

Most notably, the Saudi variant will be the first to integrate a complete maritime weapons package. While specific munition types were not detailed in the initial release, Leonardo confirmed the aircraft will be capable of deploying:

• Torpedoes
• Anti-ship missiles
• Depth charges

The modular design allows operators to reconfigure the cabin for different missions. By removing mission management consoles, the aircraft can revert to a transport configuration for troops, cargo, or medical evacuation.

AirPro News analysis

This contract represents a strategic shift for both the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and the C-27J program. For Saudi Arabia, acquiring fixed-wing assets with organic ASW and ASuW capabilities significantly extends the reach of its naval defense beyond coastal waters, reducing reliance on rotary-wing assets for long-range patrol.

For Leonardo, securing a launch customer for the armed MPA variant is a critical market validation. It positions the C-27J as a more direct competitor to other medium-tactical maritime patrol aircraft, such as the Airbus C295 MPA, by proving the platform can handle complex weapon integration alongside its established tactical airlift performance.

FAQ

When will the aircraft be delivered?
Deliveries to the Royal Saudi Naval Forces are expected to commence in 2029.

What makes this order unique?
This is the first contract for the C-27J MPA that includes the integration of maritime weapon systems, such as torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.

Does Saudi Arabia already operate the C-27J?
Yes. The Kingdom acquired two C-27J aircraft in the summer of 2025 for firefighting and utility roles.

Sources

• Leonardo