Alenia North America, a subsidiary of Alenia Aeronautica and part of the Finmeccanica Group, delivered the second refurbished and modernized C-27/G.222 aircraft to the U.S.A.F. on Oct. 2.
This is the second of 18 C-27/G.222 aircraft ordered by the U.S. Air Force. All 18 aircraft are scheduled for delivery prior to the end of 2011.
These refurbished C-27/G.222 aircraft will be used by the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan. They will then be transferred by the Combined Air Power Transition Force in Kabul to the reconstructed Afghan National Army Air Corps (ANAAC).
The first refurbished and modernized aircraft was delivered Sept. 25, Both aircraft were delivered on time and on cost.
Designed as a true military airlift, the C-27/G.222 is capable of taking off and landing in almost any operating condition. Proven as a dependable and robust aircraft, the G.222 can operate successfully even in harsh and austere environments. The G.222 has been a critical capability in numerous missions including humanitarian and peacekeeping operations, fire fighting, medical evacuation, troop transport, and logistical support.
The G.222 is currently in operation with the Nigerian Air Force, the Royal Thai Air Force, the Argentine Air Force, the U.S. State Department, and the Italian Air Force.
Alenia North America, as prime contractor, is responsible for program management. Logistical support in Afghanistan will be carried out by L-3 Vertex Aerospace. The aircraft are being refurbished and modernized by Alenia Aeronautica in its Capodichino facility near Naples, Italy.