The Royal Thai Air Force has acquired two C-295 airplanes in tactical transport configuration, which will enhance Thailand’s defence capabilities. The two C-295s will be operated by the 46th Wing Division of the Royal Thai Air Force from the Phitsanulok air base.

Thailand already has three aircraft operated by the Royal Thai Army, performing cargo and troop transport missions since 2016.

The planes will be assembled at the Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Seville, Spain, with the first delivery scheduled in the first half of 2029.

The C-295s in transport configuration have the capacity to carry 70 troops or 49 paratroopers, take off and land on unprepared runways, perform cargo and paratrooper drops, as well as undertake medical evacuation.

Airbus contributes to the Thai defence industry through a partnership with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) for their support in the maintenance of the C-295 fleet through advanced training means.

Thailand is one of the seven countries in the Asia-Pacific region that operates the C-295. The model, as the global reference in its segment, holds 85% of the market share with a total of 333 orders from 39 countries across four continents. To date, the global fleet has achieved 750,000 flight hours.