The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Ghana has signed a contract with Airbus Military for the acquisition of two C295 aircraft. The aircraft are to be delivered from the beginning of 2012. His Excellency Minister of Defence, Lt Gen. J. H. Smith, said the C295 will enable the Air Force to move troops and other security agencies across the country and within the West African sub-region.

The aircraft will also be used for medical evacuation, paratrooping, training and humanitarian operations including assistance to organizations such as National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the peace mission of the United Nations. The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Ghana is a new Airbus Military customer.

The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Ghana selected the C295 because of its ease of maintenance and proven operational capabilities in any environment, including desert areas. Furthermore, its versatility and adaptability to the most varied type of conditions and operations were other key elements in the selection of the Airbus Military C295.

Including this new order, today, 85 C295s have been ordered by 14 customers. Over 75 C295s currently in operation in 11 countries have accumulated more than 100,000 flight hours.

The new generation C295 is the ideal aircraft for defense and civil assistance missions to the benefit of society, such as humanitarian actions, maritime patrol, environmental surveillance missions, search and rescue, aerial photography, amongst others. All these special versions are already proven in service, confirming the C295 as the most versatile aircraft in its class.

Thanks to its robustness and reliability, and with simple systems, this medium sized tactical airlifter provides wide versatility and flexibility, necessary for personnel, troop and bulky/palletized cargo transportation, casualty evacuation, communication and logistic duties or certified air-dropping capabilities. The C295 has the longest cabin in its class, allowing the transport of 71 troops, 50 paratroops or five standard cargo pallets. All these capabilities are complemented with the lowest maintenance and fuel costs in its class, thanks to efficient design and efficient engines.

Its mix of dual technology civil/military equipment ensure success on demanding tactical missions, growth potential for future equipment as well as compatibility with the latest civil airspace environment. The C295 is part of Airbus Military’s family of light and medium airlifters which also include the smaller C212 and CN235 platforms.