This article is based on an official press release from Vulcanair S.p.A. and additional industry reporting.

Vulcanair Commences Production of A-VIATOR Fleet for Indonesian Navy

Vulcanair S.p.A. has officially announced the commencement of construction on four A-VIATOR (AP.68TP-600) turboprop aircraft destined for the Indonesian Navy. According to a company press release dated February 11, 2026, production is now underway at the manufacturers headquarters in Casoria, near Naples, Italy.

The activation of this contract marks a significant milestone in the modernization efforts of the Indonesian Navy. While the initial agreement was signed in December 2023, the contract was formally activated on January 29, 2026, following the finalization of necessary financing arrangements. The deal encompasses not only the airframes but also a comprehensive support package designed to enhance the Navy’s operational readiness.

Contract Scope and Mission Profile

The agreement secures the delivery of four twin-engine turboprop aircraft. Vulcanair confirmed that the contract includes extensive logistical and training support. Specifically, the package provides for pilot and maintenance technician training, as well as the delivery of a dedicated, customized flight simulator to ensure ongoing crew proficiency.

The Indonesian Navy intends to utilize the A-VIATOR fleet for a diverse set of missions. According to the manufacturer, the aircraft will be deployed for multi-engine turboprop training, personnel and cargo transport, and maritime surveillance. The versatility of the platform allows for reconfiguration to support medical evacuation roles as well, addressing the complex logistical needs of Indonesia’s archipelagic geography.

“The A-VIATOR is a cost-effective solution for special missions, offering a sleek yet simple fuselage that allows for easy reconfiguration.”

, Vulcanair S.p.A. Press Release

Technical Specifications: The A-VIATOR (AP.68TP-600)

The A-VIATOR is a high-wing, non-pressurized twin-engine aircraft derived from the Partenavia P.68 series. It is designed to offer economic operation without sacrificing performance, particularly in rugged environments.

Powerplant and Performance

The aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce 250 B17/F turboprop engines. This propulsion choice is critical for the aircraft’s mission profile, providing the reliability required for over-water operations, a safety advantage the manufacturer highlights over single-engine alternatives.

Avionics and Structure

Vulcanair states that the new fleet will be equipped with the “latest avionics suite,” ensuring compatibility with modern navigation and surveillance standards. The airframe features an all-metal structure with stressed skin and a retractable tricycle landing gear system. These design elements contribute to the aircraft’s short field performance, enabling it to operate in and out of remote areas with short or unprepared runways.

AirPro News analysis

Strategic Implications of the Deal

The activation of the Vulcanair contract reflects a broader trend in Indonesia’s defense procurement strategy, which increasingly favors cost-effective, multi-role platforms over heavier, single-purpose assets. By replacing older large turboprops and obsolete piston aircraft with the A-VIATOR, the Indonesian Navy appears to be prioritizing operational flexibility and lower operating costs.

Furthermore, this procurement underscores the strengthening defense ties between Italy and Indonesia. Industry reports from early 2026 suggest that this deal may be part of a larger framework of cooperation, with parallel discussions reportedly underway regarding the acquisition of retired Italian naval assets, such as the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi. While Vulcanair’s contract is focused on light transport and training, it serves as a tangible entry point for Italian aerospace engineering into Indonesia’s modernizing fleet.

Corporate Developments and Global Footprint

Vulcanair S.p.A., founded in 1996, continues to leverage the heritage of the Partenavia and Siai Marchetti programs. While the Indonesian Navy contract secures production lines at the Casoria headquarters, the company is simultaneously expanding its presence in North-America.

In late 2025, Vulcanair Aircraft North America inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. Unlike the Italian facility, which handles the heavy-duty twin-engine A-VIATOR production, the US site is dedicated to producing the V1 single-engine trainer to meet high demand from American flight schools. This dual-track production strategy allows Vulcanair to service government defense contracts in Europe while capturing the high-volume civilian training market in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the aircraft be delivered?
While the press release confirms that construction began in February 2026 following the January contract activation, specific delivery dates for the four units have not been publicly detailed.

What engines does the A-VIATOR use?
The aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce 250 B17/F turboprop engines.

Where are these aircraft being built?
The four aircraft for the Indonesian Navy are being manufactured at Vulcanair’s headquarters in Casoria (Naples), Italy.

Is this the only recent Vulcanair expansion?
No. In addition to the Italian production for Indonesia, Vulcanair opened a new facility in North Carolina, USA, in late 2025 to produce single-engine V1 trainers.

Sources: Vulcanair Press Release, Naval News, Defense Studies