C-27A Spartan
Origin and Development
The C-27 Spartan is a tactical military transport aircraft, developed by the Italian company Alenia Aermacchi (now Leonardo). Its design was based on the successful Alenia G222 transport aircraft, also of Italian manufacture. This program represented an effort to modernize air transport capabilities.
Production and Collaboration
Serial production of the C-27A version was initiated by the American firm Chrysler Technologies Airborne Systems Inc. This company was part of the LMATTS consortium (Lockheed Martin Alenia Tactical Transport Systems), highlighting the transatlantic collaboration in its development. This cooperation aimed to combine European design expertise with American production capability.
Operational Role and Evolution
The primary task of the C-27A was to perform missions as a Rapid-Response Intra-Theater Airlifter (RRITA) for the US Army Southern Command. Serial production began in August 1991, but the model was almost immediately replaced by a more advanced version, the C-27J Spartan. This rapid evolution demonstrates the continuous pursuit of greater efficiency and capability in military aviation.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | С-27A |
| Wingspan, m | 28.70 |
| Length, m | 22.70 |
| Height, m | 10.57 |
| Wing area, m2 | 82.00 |
| Empty weight | 16103 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 25800 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 28000 |
| Internal fuel, kg | 9400 |
| Engine type | 2 Turboprop General Electric T64-GE-P4D |
| Power, kW | 2 x 2535 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 487 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 463 |
| Practical range, km | 2779 |
| Operational range, km | 555 |
| Service ceiling, m | 6705 |
| Crew | 3-4 crew |
| Payload | 46 soldiers or 40 paratroopers or 30 passengers or 24 stretchers with 4 attendants or 9000 kg of cargo |
Image and diagram gallery of the C-27A Spartan
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ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team
A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.
Sources & Accuracy
The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.