Morocco took delivery of its first C-295 military transport aircraft on September 29, sourced from Spanish manufacturer Airbus Defence and Space. The aircraft, registered as CN-AMT with a manufacturing number of 253, was assembled at Airbus facilities near Seville, Spain. It was tracked flying towards Morocco's Kenitra Air Base after departing Seville at 11:30 am local time.
The C-295 aircraft is a medium-sized tactical military transport plane capable of operating from short or unprepared runways. It can be used for transporting troops, equipment, and logistics, as well as medical evacuations and airborne operations. According to Infodefensa, a Spanish defense publication, the C-295W variant can carry around 8 tons of cargo or up to 70 soldiers.
The acquisition of the C-295 is part of Morocco's efforts to modernize its airlift capabilities, which include C-130 Hercules and CN-235 aircraft. The C-295 is seen as a complement to the larger C-130 Hercules, rather than a direct replacement. This development also underscores Morocco's strategic move to enhance its military transport capabilities.
Morocco's neighbor, Algeria, has been operating the C-295 since 2004, making it the first African country to acquire the aircraft. Algeria's fleet has grown to six C-295s in a transport configuration. In January 2025, Algeria received approval from Spain to export eight additional C-295 aircraft worth €385.2 million.
The C-295's arrival in Morocco marks a significant milestone in the country's military modernization efforts. The aircraft's versatility and capabilities will likely play a crucial role in enhancing Morocco's military transport and logistics operations. Further details on the acquisition, including the number of aircraft ordered and the contract value, remain undisclosed.
The C-295's integration into Morocco's air force is expected to improve the country's ability to conduct a range of military operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response. The aircraft's ability to operate from short or unprepared runways makes it an ideal asset for Morocco's military.
With this acquisition, Morocco joins Algeria as one of the African countries operating the C-295. The exact number of C-295s ordered by Morocco remains unclear, with sources suggesting a range of two to four aircraft. The delivery of additional C-295s to Morocco is anticipated, although a formal announcement has not been made.
Key points
- Morocco has received its first C-295 military transport aircraft from Spain, enhancing its tactical airlift capabilities.
- The C-295 aircraft will complement Morocco's existing C-130 Hercules and CN-235 aircraft.
- Morocco's acquisition of the C-295 follows Algeria's lead, as Algeria has been operating the aircraft since 2004.
