Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Strategic airlift capability has been prioritised as a capability for investment following Government approval of the Commission on Defence Report as part of the move to (Level Of Ambition) LOA 2 capability.

A contract was recently awarded to Airbus at a cost of €59million, excluding VAT, for the provision of a new Fixed Wing Military Transport Aircraft for the Defence Forces. The aircraft is currently being manufactured and delivery is expected in mid-2025.

The Airbus C295W aircraft is highly versatile and will provide a dedicated asset to support the Defence Forces military airlift transport requirements and provide a wide contingent capability. The aircraft will enable the Air Corps to provide a wide range of services including logistics support and transport of troops and equipment, medical evacuation and air ambulance, Special Operations Forces operations and a general utility role.