Australia Awards Leonardo $70 Million to Upgrade C-27J Spartan Avionics

Australia’s C-27J Spartan Light Tactical Fixed Wing fleet will receive an avionics upgrade under a $70 million contract signed with Leonardo.

Operated by No. 35 Squadron, the C-27J Spartan fleet provides essential transportation and aerial delivery of passengers, troops and cargo, support to search and rescue missions, and aeromedical evacuation.

“Upgrading the cryptographic radio function of the C-27J platform will ensure ongoing availability of secure communications, including interoperability with key strategic partners and intelligence networks, and increased overall safety for our Australian Defence Force personnel,” Head of Aerospace Systems Division, Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Leon Phillips said.

Leonardo was selected to undertake the upgrade as the Prime contractor and the original manufacturer of the Spartan. They hold specialist knowledge and the expertise needed to conduct these major modifications to the aircraft.

No. 35 Squadron and Northrop Grumman personnel will modify the C-27J as part of routine maintenance.

The Commonwealth Avionics Upgrade will begin in September 2023 at RAAF Base Amberley and is due to be completed in 2026.