February 26, 2012:
Indonesia has bought nine C295 transport aircraft from Spain. This twin engine turboprop, 23 ton aircraft can carry six tons for up to 2,200 kilometers. Top speed is 570 kilometers an hour and max payload is nine tons or 71 troops. Indonesia will receive its first C295 this year and the rest within two years. So far, 85 have been built since the C295 entered service eleven years ago. In addition to Indonesia 13 other nations use the aircraft. Indonesia will refer to the aircraft as the CN295.
Twin engine turboprop transports are increasingly popular with military organizations. They are cheaper to buy and operate and are adequate for most countries. Four engine turboprop transports like the C-130 are still popular but increasingly expensive.