The Royal Thai Air Force has placed an order for two Airbus C295 transport aircraft configured for tactical transport missions, the service confirmed. The aircraft will be assigned to the 46th Wing Division and flown from Phitsanulok air base.
Airbus Defence and Space will handle final assembly at its Seville, Spain facilities. The first of the two C295s is scheduled to be delivered in the first half of 2029.
Thailand is not new to the C295 platform. The Royal Thai Army operates three C295s that have been used for cargo and troop transport since 2016. The additional two aircraft ordered by the Royal Thai Air Force will expand the countrys operational fleet across services.
The C295 is built to support a range of tactical roles. It can accommodate up to 70 troops or 49 paratroopers and is capable of operating from unprepared runways. Its mission set includes cargo and paratrooper drops as well as medical evacuation tasks.
Airbus also maintains a partnership with Thai Aviation Industries intended to provide maintenance support for the C295 fleet. That arrangement includes advanced training programs to support sustainment activities.
In the Asia-Pacific region Thailand joins six other nations operating the C295. Globally, the type holds an 85% share of its market segment, backed by 333 orders from 39 countries across four continents. The worldwide C295 fleet has accumulated 750,000 flight hours.
Operational placement and timeline
The two aircraft will be used by the 46th Wing Division at Phitsanulok air base. Assembly in Seville and the stated delivery timetable place the first arrival in the first half of 2029.
Maintenance and sustainment
Airbuss partnership with Thai Aviation Industries is described as a maintenance support arrangement that includes advanced training programs to underpin fleet operations.
Market footprint
The C295 program reports an 85% share in its specific segment, with 333 orders spanning 39 countries and a cumulative 750,000 flight hours for the type worldwide.