CN 235

The CN-235 is a high-wing, pressurised, twin turbo-prop plane with STOL performance that can carry a maximum payload of 6,000 kg. Its maximum cruising speed is 240 Knots and it has a range of 2,250 nautical miles with a payload of 3,550 kg. The CN-235 has been conceived for tactical military transport and is capable of operating from unpaved runways and has excellent low level flying characteristics for tactical penetration. Its large cargo hold and hydraulically operated rear ramp allow easy access for vehicle transport, standard 88´´ x 108´´ pallets, making it the ideal complement to the Hercules C-130. It can carry most combat aircraft engines and may also be subjected to a quick change configuration. The CN-235 can be used to transport up to 48 paratroopers who may jump out either of the two side doors or the rear ramp. The CN-235 is able to carry out high and low altitude (HAD, LAPES) in-flight drops distribution of up to four tons of supplies to forward troops. On medical evacuation missions, the plane can transport up to 21 stretchers, with four medics. 

Although the CN-235 was initially the result of cooperation between CASA and ITPN of Indonesia, CASA has developed its own series and versions, with increases in weights, ground performance improvements, etc. CASA's aircraft is therefore the product of continuous development, not just in the military sphere, but also in civil areas and this is illustrated by the fact of having been approved by the FAA, FAR-25, JAR-25 and the Australian CAA among others. The CN-235 is the ideal platform for the development and integration of a wide variety of versions like the Maritime Patrol Version (PERSUADER) Electronic Warfare (ESM/ECM and ELINT/COMINT), Early Warning, Navigation School, Photogrammetry, etc. The CN-235 is a leader in its class, with more than 220 aircraft sold to 29 operators and about 500,000 flight hours. 

The CASA CN 235-300M is a transport and surveillance, fixed-wing aircraft that will be used under the US Coast Guard Integrated Deepwater System to perform search and rescue missions, enforce laws and treaties including illegal drug interdiction, marine environmental protection, military readiness, and International Ice Patrol missions, as well as cargo and personnel transport. It can perform aerial delivery of search and rescue equipment such as rafts, pumps, and flares, and it can be used as an On Scene Commander platform. 

In 2003 a contract was awarded to the IDS systems integrator, Integrated Coast Guard System (ICGS), for the detailed design and development of two CASA CN235-300M maritime patrol aircraft (MPA). The Maritime Patrol Aircraft is currently in the System Development and Demonstration Phase. Delivery of two of these aircraft is slated for mid 2006.