CN-235 is a tactical military transport aircraft manufactured by  Indonesian Aerospace. Pakistan Air Force is currently operating four of these aircrafts. Three are of military (MIL) variant and one of VIP transport variant. Aircraft is capable of operating from unpaved runways and has excellent low level flying characteristics for tactical penetration. Aircraft can not only transport 48 paratroopers but also can carry out high and low altitude HAD, LAPES in-flight drops distribution of up to four tons of supplies. CN-235 is the ideal complement to the American made C-130  Hercules. Aircraft can but used in multiple configurations such as,

    * Logistical Transport

    * Para-trooping

    * Troop Transport

    * HAD, LAPES

    * Cargo Dropping

    * Medevac

The VIP variant in use by Pakistan Air Force is a presidential version with special facilities, such as a set of four face-to-face seats that can function as a discussion room furnished with telecommunication equipment. It is also equipped with 22 passenger seats. Some of the key features of CN-235 include,

    * Able to Operate on Unprepared Airfield

    * Short Take-Off Landing

    * Easy Loading and Unloading Operations Through Ramp Door

    * Low Maintenance Cost

    * Self Starting Capability

    * High Visibility Windscreen

    * Mission Versatility

Specifications          Type/Comments

Role        Tactical Military Transport

Engine        2 General Electric Turboprop GE CT7-9C Engine

Propeller        2 x 4 Hamilton Standard Blades, HS 14 RF-21

Dimensions        Overall Length 21.40m, Overall Height 8.18m, Overall Span 25.81m, Cabin Volume 41.88cu.m, Wheel Tack 3.90m, Wheel Base 6.92m

Fuel Capacity        4,000 kg

Take-off Weight        16,000 kg

Taxi Weight        16,100 kg

Landing Weight        15,800 kg

Zero Fuel Weight        14,900 kg

Take-off Distance        (S/L, ISA, MTOW at  50 ft) 745 m

Landing Distance        (S/L, ISA, MTOW at  50 ft) 603 m

Maximum Range        5,000 km

Range with Full Load        1,300 km

Max Cruising Speed        240 kts, Long Range 202 kts

Max. Endurance Speed        165 kts