Dublin, 7 October 2025 — The Irish Air Corps has taken delivery of its third Airbus C-295 aircraft, completing a €300 million investment programme that represents the largest single equipment acquisition in the history of the Defence Forces.
The aircraft arrived at Casement Aerodrome and was formally welcomed by senior Defence officials, including the Secretary General of the Department of Defence, Jacqui McCrum, Brigadier General Rory O’Connor, and members of the joint Air Corps/Department of Defence project team.
Government Commitment
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris TD described the acquisition as a major enhancement of Ireland’s military and humanitarian capabilities:
“This investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring the Defence Forces retain flexible, conventional military capabilities. The C-295 fleet, alongside the Dassault Falcon 6X strategic reach aircraft due later this year, will significantly strengthen Ireland’s transport, airlift and medical response capacity.”
Operational Role
The C-295M transport variant will provide the Air Corps with wide-ranging capabilities, including:
- Troop and logistics transport at home and overseas
- Medical evacuation and air ambulance services
- Non-combatant evacuation operations
- Support for Special Operations Forces
Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rossa Mulcahy said the aircraft would serve both military and civilian needs:
“The C-295 offers flexibility not only for Defence Forces operations but also for the State, providing vital services such as medical transfers and emergency evacuations.”
Background and Specifications
- The first two C-295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft were delivered in 2023, replacing the ageing CASA CN235 fleet purchased in 1994.
- The new transport aircraft can carry up to 70 troops, 24 stretchers, or 10 tonnes of cargo, with a range of 2,680 nautical miles.
- It is equipped with a comprehensive military communications package and can also transport light vehicles.
Looking Ahead
Later this year, the Air Corps will also receive a Dassault Falcon 6X long-range jet, valued at just under €53 million, further expanding Ireland’s strategic reach. Together, these acquisitions mark a generational upgrade for the Defence Forces, ensuring enhanced operational readiness for the next 25 years.
Sources: Department of Defence; RTÉ; The Journal.
