Leonardo-Finmeccanica demonstrates C-27J capabilities

ROME, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Leonardo-Finmeccanica began its demonstration tour for the C-27J Spartan tactical airlifter in Latin America.

The tour will cover a number of countries including Panama, Bolivia, and Argentina as the company promotes the aircraft's multimission capabilities. Leonardo-Finmeccanica hopes the wide range of environments will showcase the aircraft's adaptability.

"Latin America is a very significant environment for our C-27J, for both military and humanitarian support roles," marketing chief Umberto Rossi said in a press release. "We believe that the Spartan aircraft, in both cargo and special version configurations, is an excellent solution for several Armed Forces in the region, as a result of its versatility and operational capabilities, which complies well with the demanding "geography" and long distances of the Latin America region."

The tour follows earlier demonstrations in Mexico and Peru, where governments have already purchased the aircraft. The company notes 82 aircraft are already under contract with 14 operators in 5 continents.

The C-27J Spartan is a tactical airlifter designed to support military and civilian operations. The plane is equipped with a twin-turboprop engine in addition to modernized avionics and propulsion systems. Defensive roles include troop and material transport, paratroop deployment, and search and rescue operations.