Leonardo C-27J to join Aramco fleet in first civil multi-mission firefighter role

Leonardo will supply two C-27J multi-mission tactical transport aircraft to Mukamalah Aviation Company, a subsidiary of Aramco operating as Aloula Aviation, for operations in Saudi Arabia. Marking a significant milestone, this is the first civil order of the C-27J in a multi-mission and firefighter configuration, expanding the aircraft’s global presence to 20 operators with 95 aircraft ordered and over 270,000 flight hours logged.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027. The aircraft will support cargo transport, firefighting, oil spill response, and medical evacuation (medevac) tasks. Aloula Aviation will also serve as a service center for the C-27J in the region.

This latest success reinforces Leonardo’s long-standing relationship with Aramco, previously centered on helicopter support for energy and rescue missions. The new partnership broadens Leonardo’s presence in Saudi Arabia’s fixed-wing sector and enhances the C-27J’s footprint in the Middle East and Africa.

The C-27J Next Generation Fire Fighter is equipped with the Modular Aerial Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) II, a roll-on/roll-off system featuring a 7,500L tank that can be reloaded in under 10 minutes. This second-generation technology enables rapid response in remote areas, with the ability to take off and land on short or semi-prepared runways.

With a top speed of 325kts (602km/h) and the ability to fly low in adverse weather, the C-27J can deliver targeted water and retardant drops even in challenging terrain. Its modular design allows for quick role changes and cost-effective multi-purpose use, aligning with Leonardo’s sustainability goals.

By integrating advanced avionics, short takeoff and landing (STOL) performance, and scalable firefighting capabilities, the C-27J is positioning itself as a versatile asset in civil protection, emergency response, and disaster prevention – tailored for both rugged conditions and high-temperature operations.

Saudi Arabia recently completed a pilot program deploying drones to deliver medicines and medical supplies between healthcare centers and hospitals at the holy sites visited during Hajj.