DefenseThe Irish Air Corps has taken delivery of its third and final Airbus C295 aircraft, completing the fleet renewal project at Casement Aerodrome. The acquisition represents a total investment of €300 million, the largest equipment project in the history of Ireland’s Defence Forces.
The first two C295s, delivered in 2023 under a contract signed in 2019 valued at approximately €230 million, were configured for maritime patrol missions. The recently delivered third aircraft will primarily be used for troop transport and logistical support.
The C295 is a medium tactical transport aircraft designed for a range of military and humanitarian operations. Besides troop and cargo transport, the new aircraft will support medical transfers and non-combatant evacuation missions, contributing to the operational flexibility of the Irish Air Corps.

The addition of the C295 fleet introduces new capabilities for Ireland, particularly in terms of maritime surveillance and logistical reach. This enhancement is seen as a significant development for the country’s air mobility and mission support infrastructure.
Later this year, the Irish Air Corps expects to receive a Dassault Falcon 6X. The introduction of the Falcon 6X is set to further expand the strategic reach of Ireland’s air operations, complementing the C295s in the renewed fleet.