Indonesian aerospace manufacturer PT Dirgantara (PTDI) reported that it has finalised a contract to deliver the Nepal Army with a CN235-220M multipurpose aircraft.
PTDI announced that the purchase contract was signed on June 16 by Major Genera Purna B Silwal as the Master General of Ordnance of the Nepalese Army and PTDI President Director Budi Santoso at the Nepalese Army Headquarter. Major General Sudhir Shrestha and PTDI commissioner Fajar Satriyo witnessed the contract agreement.
The CN235-220 Military Transport ordered by the Nepalese Army is designed for paratroop transport, medical evacuation, passenger transport, VVIP transport and cargo transport that can be adjusted. The aircraft has a front door used as the entrance or exit for VIPs or VVIPs, while the ramp door is wide enough for a paratroop operation and cargo loading.
The aircraft is expected to be delivered to Nepal within 18 months. Previously, PTDI delivered a CN235-220M to Senegalese Air Force in 2014.
“This new multi-purpose aircraft has a Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) capability at 800 meters rugged airstrips, ramp door for easy loading/unloading, and low-cost maintenance characteristic,” PTDI claims on its website. PTDI legal manager and spokesperson said that a small vehicle can even fit in the aircraft.
