Airbus Delivers Two C295 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft to Angola

Airbus Defence handed over two C295 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) to Angola on November 7.

In an official statement, the company said these new aircraft will play a key role in Search and Rescue (SAR), controlling illegal fishing and borders, maritime traffic control, and conducting intelligence-gathering missions, among others. To date, 54 C295s have been ordered by 11 different African air forces.

The C295 can conduct surveillance for more than 11 hours. Its rear ramp allows the quick release of life rafts, and bubble windows on the fuselage provide wide visual coverage. The aircraft’s mission equipment includes Airbus’ Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS), which uses touchscreen displays and an interface that combines data into a single maritime picture. FITS connects with the aircraft’s navigation systems to improve situational awareness and reduce crew workload. The C295’s long cabin also allows it to be used for troop, cargo, and personnel transport, as well as medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).