Airbus Secures €102 Million Contract to Modernize Polish C-295M Fleet

Airbus Defence and Space has secured a €102 million contract with the Polish Armament Agency to modernize 16 C-295M CASA aircraft.

The modernization will upgrade avionics, communication systems, and airdrop capabilities.

Announced on December 13, the contract will enhance the operational capabilities of the Polish Air Force’s fleet, which is operated by the 8th Airlift Base in Balice.

Under the terms of the eight-year modernization plan, set to begin next year, Airbus will upgrade key systems on the C-295M aircraft. These upgrades will include modern avionics, operational systems, and advanced communication suites, such as new radio and satellite links. The aircraft will also be equipped with upgraded "friend-or-foe" systems, improved self-defense measures, and expanded airdrop capabilities for paratroopers.

The modernization will be carried out in two phases: two of the C-295M aircraft will undergo retrofitting at Airbus facilities in Spain, where the aircraft is built, while the remaining 14 planes will be upgraded at Airbus’ Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in Warsaw. The Polish facilities, which already provide support to various NATO partners such as the Czech Republic and Finland, will play a key role in the fleet's modernization.

Poland first acquired eight C-295M aircraft in 2001, with additional units added in subsequent years.