Getafe, Spain. 22 May 2026 – The Royal Thai Air Force has taken a significant step to bolster its operational capabilities with the acquisition of two Airbus C295 aircraft in a tactical transport configuration. These aircraft will be utilized by the 46th Wing Division, stationed at Phitsanulok air base.
The addition of these C295s will complement the existing fleet operated by the Royal Thai Army, which has three C295s that have been active in cargo and troop transport roles since 2016.
Assembly of the new aircraft will take place at Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Seville, Spain, with the first delivery anticipated in the first half of 2029.
Designed for versatility, the C295 transport configurations can carry up to 70 troops or 49 paratroopers, enabling operations from unpaved runways, executing cargo and paratrooper drops, and conducting medical evacuation missions.
Airbus is committed to supporting the Thai defence sector through its collaboration with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI), which will provide maintenance support and advanced training for the C295 fleet.
Thailand is among seven countries in the Asia-Pacific that has integrated the C295 into its military operations. With an impressive 85% market share in its category, the C295 has amassed a total of 333 orders from 39 nations across four continents, reaching a milestone of 750,000 flight hours within the global fleet.
Source: Airbus Defence and Space (2026-05-21)
