2013-01-02 The C-295 is a proven global commodity in its lift and ISR roles.
Now Airbus Military is modifying the aircraft to play an air battle management role.
Such adaptation will be a hallmark of the period ahead as countries seek cost effective and technologically smart adaptations to stay competitive and effective.
According to a January 2, 2013 Airbus Military press release, the C295 has continued its testing of the C-295 in a new configuration.
Airbus Military has begun flight-testing a modification to add winglets to the C295 medium transport and surveillance aircraft – one of a series of product developments underway on the market-leading type.
The winglets, which are short extensions to the wingtips of the aircraft, have the potential to improve performance in the take-off, climb and cruise phases of flight by increasing the lift- drag ratio.
Possible in-service benefits include improved hot and high runway performance, increased range and endurance, and reduced operating costs.
First flight of the wingletted aircraft took place with complete success at Airbus Military’s Seville facility in Spain on 21 December. Data from that flight is being analysed and will be added to data from future flights, providing the basis for a decision on whether or not to incorporate winglets into the C295 design. The photograph shows the C295 during its first flight with winglets.
In earlier reporting on Second Line of Defense, the Airbus Military approach to evolving the C-295 into new roles was discussed.
https://sldinfo.com/crafting-a-new-aew-platform/
https://sldinfo.com/a-new-aew-aircraft-follow-up/
The initial look at the platform was provided at an Airbus Military Trade Media event in 2011.
The slides which were presented at that time can be seen below
[slidepress gallery=’crafting-a-new-aew-platform’]