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{{Short description|1970 airlifter family by Aeritalia}}
{{redirect|G222|the highway in China|China National Highway 222}}
{{redirect|G222|the highway in China|China National Highway 222}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2019}}
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{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
{{Infobox aircraft
|name= G.222 <br/>C-27A Spartan
| name = G.222 <br/>C-27A Spartan
|image= File:DF-ST-98-01305.JPEG
| image = File:DF-ST-98-01305.JPEG
|caption= A US Air Force C-27A Spartan out of Howard AFB, Panama
| caption = A US Air Force C-27A Spartan out of Howard AFB, Panama
⚫
| type = [[Military transport aircraft]]
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
⚫
| manufacturer = [[Fiat Aviazione|Fiat]] / [[Aeritalia]] / [[Alenia Aeronautica]]
⚫
|type= [[Military transport aircraft]]
⚫
| designer =
⚫
|manufacturer= [[Fiat Aviazione|Fiat]] / [[Aeritalia]] / [[Alenia Aeronautica]]
⚫
| first_flight = 18 July 1970
⚫
|designer=
⚫
| introduction = April 1978
⚫
|first flight= 18 July 1970
⚫
| retired = 2012 ([[Afghan Air Force]])
⚫
|introduced= April 1978
⚫
| status = Retired
⚫
|retired= [[Afghan Air Force]] (2012)
⚫
| primary_user = [[Italian Air Force]] <small>(historical)</small>
⚫
|status= In service
|primary user= [[Italian Air Force]] <small>(historical)</small>
| more_users = [[Nigerian Air Force]] <br>[[Argentine Army Aviation]] <small>(historical)</small>
| produced = 1970–1993<ref name="Janes 421">Janes 2005, p. 421.</ref>
⚫
|more users=[[Nigerian Air Force]] <br>[[Argentine Army Aviation]] <small>(historical)</small>
|produced= 1970–1993<ref name="Janes 421">Janes 2005, p. 421.</ref>
| number_built = 111<ref name="Janes 421"/>
| developed_from =
|number built= 111<ref name="Janes 421"/>
⚫
| developed_into = [[Alenia C-27J Spartan]]
|developed from=
⚫
|variants with their own articles= [[Alenia C-27J Spartan]]
}}
}}
|}


The '''Aeritalia G.222''' (formerly [[Fiat Aviazione]], later [[Alenia Aeronautica]]) is a medium-sized [[STOL]] [[military transport aircraft]].
The '''Aeritalia G.222''' (formerly [[Fiat Aviazione]], later [[Alenia Aeronautica]]) is a medium-sized [[STOL]] [[military transport aircraft]]. It was developed to meet a [[NATO]] specification, but [[Italy]] was initially the only NATO member to adopt the type. The [[United States]] purchased a 10 number of G.222s, designating them the '''C-27A Spartan''' in the 1990s.<ref>Donald (2000). p. 426.</ref><ref>Frawley (2002). p. 44.</ref> A G.222 was shot down over Yugoslavia, but formerly retired G.222 had a minimal service record in the former mission in Afghanistan;overall it has estbalished itself in humanitarian missions and small missions from shorter less improved airstrips.Its modernized successor the C-27J has proven to be a moderate success on the international export market, as a twin turboprop military transport building on the legacy of the G.222.


It was developed to meet a [[NATO]] [[NBMR-3#Aircraft designs submitted .28NBMR-4.29|Basic Military Requirement 4]]; accordingly, it was originally designed with lift engines for a [[V/STOL]] capability, but these were never fitted to production aircraft. No wider NATO production contact were emerged, but [[Italy]] was keen to support its homegrown transport aircraft and issued an order for it in a more conventional configuration. Following its introduction to [[Italian Air Force]] service in April 1978, the type soon proved itself to be capable for conducting operations from compact and austere airstrips, particularly humanitarian missions.
⚫
A modernised variant, the [[Alenia C-27J Spartan]], has been developed. While it retains many aspects of the original aircraft, the C-27J adopts the same engines and many of the systems used on the larger [[Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules]]. The C27J has been called the "Baby Herc".

Various export customers emerged for the type during the 1980s and 1990s. [[Libya]]n efforts to purchase 20 G.222s were initially vetoed by [[United States]]; Libya later procured a version of the aircraft without US-made equipment present instead. The United States purchased 10 G.222s in the 1990s, designating the type '''C-27A Spartan'''.<ref>Donald (2000). p. 426.</ref><ref>Frawley 2002, p. 44.</ref> During the 2000s, as the Italian Air Force withdrew their original G.222s due to their advancing age, these aircraft were commonly refurbished and subsequently sold onto other nations; via this approach, several G.222s were dispatched to Afghanistan during the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]].

⚫
A modernised variant, the [[Alenia C-27J Spartan]], has been developed during the early 21st century. While it retains many aspects of the original aircraft, the C-27J adopts the same engines and many of the systems used on the larger [[Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules]]. Several G.222 operators, including the Italian Air Force, have opted to retire their fleets in favour of new-built C-27Js.


==Development==
==Development==
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On 18 July 1970, the first prototype performed the aircraft's [[maiden flight]] with test pilot [[Vittorio Sanseverino]] at the controls. By late April 1971, the prototype had reportedly conducted a total of 22 flights and accumulated 50 hours of flight time, during which its performance was claimed to have been highly close to predictions.<ref name= "Gilson 577">Gilson 1971, p. 577.</ref> In December 1971, the Italian Air Force, who had placed a provisional order for the developing type, formally began evaluating the G.222 and the performance of the two prototypes then in service. Following a successful testing period, the AMI contract for 44 aircraft was issued to [[Aeritalia]] (of which Fiat Aviazione had since become a part).<ref name="Air Int 77 p167-8">''Air International'' April 1977, pp. 167–168.</ref> In December 1975, the first production aircraft conducted its first flight.<ref name= "tyne intern"/> In April 1978, this same aircraft formally entered service with the AMI.<ref name="Janes 88 p143">Taylor 1988, pp. 143–144</ref> Following on from its introduction by the AMI, the G.222 was procured as a tactical transport aircraft by various international customers, including [[Argentina]], [[Nigeria]], [[Somalia]], [[Venezuela]] and [[Thailand]].<ref name= "NATO A113">Evangelisti, Spinoni and Jones 1999, p. A11-3.</ref>
On 18 July 1970, the first prototype performed the aircraft's [[maiden flight]] with test pilot [[Vittorio Sanseverino]] at the controls. By late April 1971, the prototype had reportedly conducted a total of 22 flights and accumulated 50 hours of flight time, during which its performance was claimed to have been highly close to predictions.<ref name= "Gilson 577">Gilson 1971, p. 577.</ref> In December 1971, the Italian Air Force, who had placed a provisional order for the developing type, formally began evaluating the G.222 and the performance of the two prototypes then in service. Following a successful testing period, the AMI contract for 44 aircraft was issued to [[Aeritalia]] (of which Fiat Aviazione had since become a part).<ref name="Air Int 77 p167-8">''Air International'' April 1977, pp. 167–168.</ref> In December 1975, the first production aircraft conducted its first flight.<ref name= "tyne intern"/> In April 1978, this same aircraft formally entered service with the AMI.<ref name="Janes 88 p143">Taylor 1988, pp. 143–144</ref> Following on from its introduction by the AMI, the G.222 was procured as a tactical transport aircraft by various international customers, including [[Argentina]], [[Nigeria]], [[Somalia]], [[Venezuela]] and [[Thailand]].<ref name= "NATO A113">Evangelisti, Spinoni and Jones 1999, p. A11-3.</ref>


In December 1978, Aeritalia elected to transfer final assembly of the G.222 from [[Turin]] to [[Naples]], at which point a total of 44 firm orders had been obtained for the type and one aircraft per month was being manufactured.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%203193.html "G.222."] ''Flight International'', p. 2108.</ref> Manufacturing of the G.222 was broken down into various companies; construction of the fuselage was performed at Naples, the center-section of the wing was produced by [[Piaggio]], the wing panels were made by [[Macchi]], the tail surfaces were built by [[SIAI-Marchetti]], the engine nacelles by IAM, and the T64 engines were [[licensed production|license-manufactured]] by [[Alfa Romeo]] and [[Fiat]].<ref name= "FI 2113"/>
In December 1978, Aeritalia elected to transfer final assembly of the G.222 from [[Turin]] to [[Naples]], at which point a total of 44 firm orders had been obtained for the type and one aircraft per month was being manufactured.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1978/1978%20-%203193.html "G.222."] ''Flight International'', p. 2108.</ref> Manufacturing of the G.222 was broken down into various companies; construction of the fuselage was performed at Naples, the center-section of the wing was produced by [[Piaggio]], the wing panels were made by [[Aermacchi|Macchi]], the tail surfaces were built by [[SIAI-Marchetti]], the engine nacelles by IAM, and the T64 engines were [[licensed production|license-manufactured]] by [[Alfa Romeo]] and [[Fiat]].<ref name= "FI 2113"/>


===Further development===
===Further development===
[[File:USAF 24th Wing C-27A taxies with flags.JPEG|thumb|A C-27A taxiing at [[McChord AFB]], Washington, 1998]]
[[File:USAF 24th Wing C-27A taxies with flags.JPEG|thumb|A C-27A taxiing at [[McChord AFB]], Washington, 1998]]


In 1977, [[Libya]] sought the purchase of 20 G.222s; this was vetoed by the [[U.S. Government]], who had imposed an embargo on military arms and equipment to Libya, which included the G.222's T64 engines. To get around this restriction, Aeritalia developed a version of the G.222 powered by the [[Rolls-Royce Tyne]] engine and other US supplied equipment was replaced by European equivalents; the more powerful Tyne engine also reportedly gave this variant superior "hot and high" performance.<ref name="Air Int 170-3">''Air International'' April 1979, pp. 170–173.</ref> The provision of alternative powerplants was viewed by Aeritalia as a measure to widen the overall appeal of the G.222; the Tyne engine also reportedly possessed greater growth potential than the T64 engine.<ref name="tyne intern"/> In May 1980, the first G.222 equipped with the Tyne engine performed its [[maiden flight]].<ref name= "tyne intern"/> Libya placed an order for 20 Tyne-powered aircraft instead, with deliveries commencing from 1980.<ref name= "Janes 421"/><ref name= "tyne intern"/>
In 1977, [[Libya]] sought the purchase of 20 G.222s; this was vetoed by the [[U.S. Government]], who had imposed an embargo on military arms and equipment to Libya, which included the G.222's T64 engines. To get around this restriction, Aeritalia developed a version of the G.222 powered by the [[Rolls-Royce Tyne]] engine and other US supplied equipment was replaced by European equivalents; the more powerful Tyne engine also reportedly gave this variant superior "hot and high" performance.<ref name="Air Int 170-3">''Air International'' April 1979, pp. 170–173.</ref> The provision of alternative powerplants was viewed by Aeritalia as a measure to widen the overall appeal of the G.222; the Tyne engine also reportedly possessed greater growth potential than the T64 engine.<ref name="tyne intern"/> In May 1980, the first G.222 equipped with the Tyne engine performed its [[maiden flight]].<ref name= "tyne intern"/> Libya placed an order for 20 Tyne-powered aircraft instead, with deliveries commencing from 1980.<ref name= "Janes 421"/><ref name= "tyne intern"/>


In order to extend the effective operational lifespan of the type, some operators have carried out extensive upgrade programs of the G.222. In the aftermath of Italian [[humanitarian]] missions in [[Bosnia]] and [[Somalia]], in 1996 the AMI began undertaking a major update program on their G.222 fleet; modifications include cockpit lighting changes for compatibility with [[Night Vision Goggles]] to enable night operations, increasing the aircraft's self-defense capabilities, new communications and navigation systems, and the removal of obsolete equipment.<ref name= "NATO A113"/> In July 2005, the [[Nigerian Air Force]] signed a $74.5 million contract with Alenia Aeronautica for the refurbishment of a total of five G.222s, as well as the purchase of a retired AMI G.222.<ref>Nkala, Oscar. [http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=31883:nigerian-air-force-takes-delivery-of-10-locally-refurbished-aircraft&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107 "Nigerian Air Force takes delivery of 10 locally refurbished aircraft."] ''defenceweb.co.za'', 13 September 2013.</ref>
In order to extend the effective operational lifespan of the type, some operators have carried out extensive upgrade programs of the G.222. In the aftermath of Italian [[humanitarian]] missions in [[Bosnia]] and [[Somalia]], in 1996 the AMI began undertaking a major update program on their G.222 fleet; modifications include cockpit lighting changes for compatibility with [[Night Vision Goggles]] to enable night operations, increasing the aircraft's self-defense capabilities, new communications and navigation systems, and the removal of obsolete equipment.<ref name= "NATO A113"/> In July 2005, the [[Nigerian Air Force]] signed a $74.5 million contract with Alenia Aeronautica for the refurbishment of a total of five G.222s, as well as the purchase of a retired AMI G.222.<ref>Nkala, Oscar. [http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=31883:nigerian-air-force-takes-delivery-of-10-locally-refurbished-aircraft&catid=35:Aerospace&Itemid=107 "Nigerian Air Force takes delivery of 10 locally refurbished aircraft."] ''defenceweb.co.za'', 13 September 2013.</ref>
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The cockpit provides excellent external visibility for pilots, most of the key controls are centrally placed between the two pilots, enabling the aircraft to be flown by a single pilot under certain circumstances.<ref name= "Gilson 577"/><ref name= "NATO A113"/> The standard G.222 is equipped with various avionics, such as a nose-mounted [[Doppler radar]], navigational computers, radio systems, and a [[Rockwell Collins]]-built [[autopilot]].<ref name= "FI 2113"/> Electronic receiver equipment and up to ten control consoles were installed upon a number of G.222s for performing [[signals intelligence|electronic reconnaissance]] missions.<ref name= "FI 2113"/> Some aircraft were fitted with [[aerial refuelling]] [[aerial refueling#Probe-and-drogue 2|probes]] and associated equipment.<ref name= "Girolami 3"/> Some Italian G.222s have been equipped with a self-protection suite, which uses multiple forms of sensors to warn against identified threats, this suite also includes several countermeasures such as [[Chaff (countermeasure)|chaff]] and [[flare (countermeasure)|flare]] dispensers.<ref name= "Girolami 3"/>
The cockpit provides excellent external visibility for pilots, most of the key controls are centrally placed between the two pilots, enabling the aircraft to be flown by a single pilot under certain circumstances.<ref name= "Gilson 577"/><ref name= "NATO A113"/> The standard G.222 is equipped with various avionics, such as a nose-mounted [[Doppler radar]], navigational computers, radio systems, and a [[Rockwell Collins]]-built [[autopilot]].<ref name= "FI 2113"/> Electronic receiver equipment and up to ten control consoles were installed upon a number of G.222s for performing [[signals intelligence|electronic reconnaissance]] missions.<ref name= "FI 2113"/> Some aircraft were fitted with [[aerial refuelling]] [[aerial refueling#Probe-and-drogue 2|probes]] and associated equipment.<ref name= "Girolami 3"/> Some Italian G.222s have been equipped with a self-protection suite, which uses multiple forms of sensors to warn against identified threats, this suite also includes several countermeasures such as [[Chaff (countermeasure)|chaff]] and [[flare (countermeasure)|flare]] dispensers.<ref name= "Girolami 3"/>

Because of the similarites between the C-27J and C-130J, it was somtimes called the the "Baby Herc" in press or vernacular.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Saga of the Spartans |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/the-saga-of-the-spartans/ |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine |language=en-US}}</ref>


==Operational history==
==Operational history==
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In September 2008, Alenia North America was awarded a USAF contract to upgrade and refurbish 18 G.222s, to be transferred to and used by the [[Afghan Air Force]]. Ballistic protection, adaptations for serving in the conditions of Afghanistan, and many new avionics systems, including a digital auto-pilot, were installed; two aircraft were also configured for VIP transport duties.<ref name= "g.222 afghan">[https://web.archive.org/web/20140610081710/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-203814930.html "Roll-out of the first G.222 aircraft, refurbished and modernized with systems and avionics, at Alenia Aeronautica's Capodichino plant".] ''Defense & Aerospace Week'', 22 July 2009.</ref><ref>Kington, Tom. [http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4173862&c=EUR&s=AIR "First Refurbished G.222 Ready for Afghan Air Force"]{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}. ''DefenseNews.com''. Army Times Publishing Company, 6 July 2009. Retrieved: 6 July 2009.</ref><ref>Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-may-buy-new-self-protection-system-for-afghan-b-316774/ "USAF may buy new self-protection system for Afghan-bound G222s."] ''Flight International'', 6 October 2008.</ref> On 28 April 2010, the first two of the Afghan Air Force's recently delivered G.222s made their first public display during the [[Mujahideen Victory Day]].<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-afghan-g222s-make-public-debut-341265/ "PICTURES: Afghan G222s make public debut."] ''Flight International'', 29 April 2010.</ref> In January 2013, the USAF decided not to renew the support contract for the Afghan fleet due to claimed serviceability issues and operational difficulties; Alenia responded, stating that the fleet was exceeding the requirements laid out by the USAF, with 10–12 aircraft available for operations against the requirement for six.<ref name= "aw afghan"/>
In September 2008, Alenia North America was awarded a USAF contract to upgrade and refurbish 18 G.222s, to be transferred to and used by the [[Afghan Air Force]]. Ballistic protection, adaptations for serving in the conditions of Afghanistan, and many new avionics systems, including a digital auto-pilot, were installed; two aircraft were also configured for VIP transport duties.<ref name= "g.222 afghan">[https://web.archive.org/web/20140610081710/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-203814930.html "Roll-out of the first G.222 aircraft, refurbished and modernized with systems and avionics, at Alenia Aeronautica's Capodichino plant".] ''Defense & Aerospace Week'', 22 July 2009.</ref><ref>Kington, Tom. [http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=4173862&c=EUR&s=AIR "First Refurbished G.222 Ready for Afghan Air Force"]{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}. ''DefenseNews.com''. Army Times Publishing Company, 6 July 2009. Retrieved: 6 July 2009.</ref><ref>Sobie, Brendan. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-may-buy-new-self-protection-system-for-afghan-b-316774/ "USAF may buy new self-protection system for Afghan-bound G222s."] ''Flight International'', 6 October 2008.</ref> On 28 April 2010, the first two of the Afghan Air Force's recently delivered G.222s made their first public display during the [[Mujahideen Victory Day]].<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-afghan-g222s-make-public-debut-341265/ "PICTURES: Afghan G222s make public debut."] ''Flight International'', 29 April 2010.</ref> In January 2013, the USAF decided not to renew the support contract for the Afghan fleet due to claimed serviceability issues and operational difficulties; Alenia responded, stating that the fleet was exceeding the requirements laid out by the USAF, with 10–12 aircraft available for operations against the requirement for six.<ref name= "aw afghan"/>
[[File:Afghan Air Force C-27A.jpg|thumb|right|[[Afghan Air Force]] C-27A, 2010]]
[[File:Afghan Air Force C-27A.jpg|thumb|right|[[Afghan Air Force]] C-27A, 2010]]
The 16 G.222s delivered to Afghanistan were scrapped in the summer of 2014 by the [[Defense Logistics Agency]].<ref name="g.222 scrap">Sopko, John F. [http://www.sigar.mil/pdf/special%20projects/SIGAR-15-04-SP_IL_G222%20Disposition%20Notf%20Req_03Oct2014_Redacted.pdf Letter to Charles T. Hagel, Secretary of Defense] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018013339/http://www.sigar.mil/pdf/special%20projects/SIGAR-15-04-SP_IL_G222%20Disposition%20Notf%20Req_03Oct2014_Redacted.pdf |date=18 October 2014 }}, 3 October 2014. Retrieved: 10 October 2014.</ref> After the U.S. spent $486 million to buy 20 C-27As, 16 were sold as scrap to an Afghan construction company for about $32,000; the planes were reportedly scrapped "to minimize impact on drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan." The four remaining aircraft are stored at [[Ramstein Air Base]], Germany, with the U.S. seeking other interested buyers. From January to September 2012, the Afghan C-27A fleet flew only 234 out of 4,500 required hours.<ref>[http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20141009/NEWS/310090068/DLA-junks-multimillion-planes-Afghan-Air-Force-sells-scrap-6-cents-pound DLA junks multimillion planes for Afghan Air Force, sells scrap for 6 cents a pound] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012021856/https://www.militarytimes.com/article/20141009/NEWS/310090068/DLA-junks-multimillion-planes-Afghan-Air-Force-sells-scrap-6-cents-pound/ |date=12 October 2018 }} - Militarytimes.com, 9 October 2014.</ref> The C-17A fleet had been procured for their keep attributes to enable them to operate in Afghanistan terrain, they were former Italian G.222. However, they ended up being replaced by C-130H after maintanence difficulties.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Correspondent |first=Chris Pocock • Defense |title=New Twist to U.S. C-27 Saga With Afghan Scrappings {{!}} AIN |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2014-10-27/new-twist-us-c-27-saga-afghan-scrappings-0 |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Aviation International News}}</ref>
The 16 G.222s delivered to Afghanistan were scrapped in the summer of 2014 by the [[Defense Logistics Agency]].<ref name="g.222 scrap">Sopko, John F. [http://www.sigar.mil/pdf/special%20projects/SIGAR-15-04-SP_IL_G222%20Disposition%20Notf%20Req_03Oct2014_Redacted.pdf Letter to Charles T. Hagel, Secretary of Defense] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018013339/http://www.sigar.mil/pdf/special%20projects/SIGAR-15-04-SP_IL_G222%20Disposition%20Notf%20Req_03Oct2014_Redacted.pdf |date=18 October 2014 }}, 3 October 2014. Retrieved: 10 October 2014.</ref> After the U.S. spent $486 million to buy 20 C-27As, 16 were sold as scrap to an Afghan construction company for about $32,000; the planes were reportedly scrapped "to minimize impact on drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan." The four remaining aircraft are stored at [[Ramstein Air Base]], Germany, with the U.S. seeking other interested buyers. From January to September 2012, the Afghan C-27A fleet flew only 234 out of 4,500 required hours.<ref>[http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20141009/NEWS/310090068/DLA-junks-multimillion-planes-Afghan-Air-Force-sells-scrap-6-cents-pound DLA junks multimillion planes for Afghan Air Force, sells scrap for 6 cents a pound] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012021856/https://www.militarytimes.com/article/20141009/NEWS/310090068/DLA-junks-multimillion-planes-Afghan-Air-Force-sells-scrap-6-cents-pound/ |date=12 October 2018 }} - Militarytimes.com, 9 October 2014.</ref> The C-17A fleet had been procured for their keep attributes to enable them to operate in Afghanistan terrain, they were former Italian G.222. However, they ended up being replaced by C-130H after maintenance difficulties.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pocock |first=Chris |title=New Twist to U.S. C-27 Saga With Afghan Scrappings {{!}} AIN |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2014-10-27/new-twist-us-c-27-saga-afghan-scrappings-0 |access-date=2023-10-29 |website=Aviation International News}}</ref>


==Variants==
==Variants==
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;G.222SAA: (''Sistema Aeronautico Antincendio'' - "aeronautical fire-fighting system") - fire-fighter equipped for dumping water or fire retardant chemicals. Four built for Italian Air Force.
;G.222SAA: (''Sistema Aeronautico Antincendio'' - "aeronautical fire-fighting system") - fire-fighter equipped for dumping water or fire retardant chemicals. Four built for Italian Air Force.


;G.222T: Version powered by the [[Rolls-Royce Tyne]] for the [[Libyan Air Force (1951-2011)|Libyan Air Force]]. Sometimes designated ''G.222L''.<ref name= "Janes 421"/>
;G.222T: Version powered by the [[Rolls-Royce Tyne]] for the [[Libyan Air Force (1951–2011)|Libyan Air Force]]. Sometimes designated ''G.222L''.<ref name= "Janes 421"/>


;G.222VS: (''Versione Speciale'' - "special version") [[Electronic countermeasures|ECM]] version - two built for Italian Air Force. Sometimes designated ''G.222GE''.<ref name= "Janes 421"/>
;G.222VS: (''Versione Speciale'' - "special version") [[Electronic countermeasures|ECM]] version - two built for Italian Air Force. Sometimes designated ''G.222GE''.<ref name= "Janes 421"/>
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'''Current operators'''
'''Current operators'''
:There are no known current operators (March 2024)
⚫
;{{NGA}}
* [[Nigerian Air Force]] received 5 aircraft during 1984–85. Alenia Aeronautica is updating these aircraft. 1 ex-Italian Air Force aircraft ordered in 2008.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
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;{{SOM}}
* [[Somali Air Corps]] received 4 aircraft.{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
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;{{TUN}}
* [[Tunisian Air Force]] ordered 5 aircraft never delivered.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-database|title=Military Database - Scramble|website=www.scramble.nl|access-date=15 September 2019|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808150126/https://www.scramble.nl/military-database/|url-status=dead}}</ref>


'''Former operators'''
'''Former operators'''
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;{{LBY}}
;{{LBY}}
* [[Libyan Air Force (1951-2011)|Libyan Air Force]] operated 20 aircraft.<ref name= "tyne intern">[https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1981/1981%20-%203354.PDF "Tyne-powered G.222 variants planned."] ''Flight International'', 24 October 1981. p. 1262.</ref> By 2004, these had all reportedly been sold to a private company.<ref>Feldman 2004, p. 206.</ref>
* [[Libyan Air Force (1951-2011)|Libyan Air Force]] operated 20 aircraft.<ref name= "tyne intern">[https://www.flightglobal.com/FlightPDFArchive/1981/1981%20-%203354.PDF "Tyne-powered G.222 variants planned."] ''Flight International'', 24 October 1981. p. 1262.</ref> By 2004, these had all reportedly been sold to a private company.<ref>Feldman 2004, p. 206.</ref>
⚫
;{{NGA}}
*[[Nigerian Air Force]] operated a total of 6 aircraft, all now stored.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nigeria Airforce; search 'G222' |url=https://www.scramble.nl/database/military/ng |website=scramble.nl |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref>
;{{PER}}
;{{PER}}
*[[Peruvian National Police]]{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
*[[Peruvian National Police]]{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
;{{THA}}
;{{THA}}
* [[Royal Thai Air Force]] operated 6 aircraft; retired as of 2010.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wings-aviation.ch/11-RTAF/200-Aircraft/Alenia-G-222/Transport.htm |title=Rtaf G.222 |access-date=1 August 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808054844/http://www.wings-aviation.ch/11-RTAF/200-Aircraft/Alenia-G-222/Transport.htm |archive-date=8 August 2014 }}</ref>
* [[Royal Thai Air Force]] operated 6 aircraft; retired as of 2010.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wings-aviation.ch/11-RTAF/200-Aircraft/Alenia-G-222/Transport.htm |title=Rtaf G.222 |access-date=1 August 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808054844/http://www.wings-aviation.ch/11-RTAF/200-Aircraft/Alenia-G-222/Transport.htm |archive-date=8 August 2014 }}</ref>
⚫
;{{SOM}}
* [[Somali Air Corps]] received 4-6 aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |title=Somalia Airforce; search 'G222' |url=https://www.scramble.nl/database/military/so |website=scramble.nl |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref>
⚫
;{{TUN}}
* [[Tunisian Air Force]] ordered 5 aircraft never delivered.<ref>{{cite web |title=Tunisia Airforce; search 'G222' |url=https://www.scramble.nl/database/military/tn |website=scramble.nl |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref>
;{{UAE}}
;{{UAE}}
* [[Dubai]] had 1 aircraft (former operator).{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
* [[Dubai]] had 1 aircraft (former operator).{{citation needed|date=July 2017}}
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==See also==
==See also==
{{External media |topic= |width=20% |align=right |video1=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Y7CWG8ElMI A G.222 performing a demonstration flight] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Myqq3y0BLoU Video of the G.222 suffering a nose wheel collapse during a heavy landing]}}
{{External media |topic= |width=20% |float=right |video1=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Y7CWG8ElMI A G.222 performing a demonstration flight] |video2=[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Myqq3y0BLoU Video of the G.222 suffering a nose wheel collapse during a heavy landing]}}
{{aircontent
{{aircontent
|see also=
|see also=
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[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1970]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1970]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear]]

Latest revision as of 16:59, 25 November 2024

"G222" redirects here. For the highway in China, see China National Highway 222.

G.222
C-27A Spartan
A US Air Force C-27A Spartan out of Howard AFB, Panama
General information
TypeMilitary transport aircraft
ManufacturerFiat / Aeritalia / Alenia Aeronautica
StatusRetired
Primary usersItalian Air Force (historical)
Number built111[1]
History
Manufactured1970–1993[1]
Introduction dateApril 1978
First flight18 July 1970
Retired2012 (Afghan Air Force)
Developed intoAlenia C-27J Spartan

The Aeritalia G.222 (formerly Fiat Aviazione, later Alenia Aeronautica) is a medium-sized STOL military transport aircraft.

It was developed to meet a NATO Basic Military Requirement 4; accordingly, it was originally designed with lift engines for a V/STOL capability, but these were never fitted to production aircraft. No wider NATO production contact were emerged, but Italy was keen to support its homegrown transport aircraft and issued an order for it in a more conventional configuration. Following its introduction to Italian Air Force service in April 1978, the type soon proved itself to be capable for conducting operations from compact and austere airstrips, particularly humanitarian missions.

Various export customers emerged for the type during the 1980s and 1990s. Libyan efforts to purchase 20 G.222s were initially vetoed by United States; Libya later procured a version of the aircraft without US-made equipment present instead. The United States purchased 10 G.222s in the 1990s, designating the type C-27A Spartan.[2][3] During the 2000s, as the Italian Air Force withdrew their original G.222s due to their advancing age, these aircraft were commonly refurbished and subsequently sold onto other nations; via this approach, several G.222s were dispatched to Afghanistan during the War in Afghanistan.

A modernised variant, the Alenia C-27J Spartan, has been developed during the early 21st century. While it retains many aspects of the original aircraft, the C-27J adopts the same engines and many of the systems used on the larger Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. Several G.222 operators, including the Italian Air Force, have opted to retire their fleets in favour of new-built C-27Js.

Development

[edit]

Origins

[edit]

In 1962, NATO issued a specification for a V/STOL transport aircraft (NATO Basic Military Requirement 4), capable of supporting dispersed V/STOL fighters. Fiat's design team, led by Giuseppe Gabrielli, produced a design to meet this requirement, designated G.222; it was to be powered by two Rolls-Royce Dart turboprop engines and with six to eight Rolls-Royce RB162 lift engines to give VTOL capability.[4] According to Aeritalia, the G.222 designation is derived from the first letter of the aircraft's chief designer; the first '2' referring to the twin-engine arrangement, and the final '22' referring to the revised NATO Basic Military Requirement 22 to which it had been submitted.[5]

None of the submissions resulted in a production contract; however the Italian Air Force (AMI), who was at the time seeking a replacement for the Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar, felt that the Fiat Aviazione proposal had merit, and placed an order for two prototypes and a ground-test airframe in 1968.[6][7] The G.222 was substantially redeveloped from the NATO submission, the V/STOL lift engines having been omitted completely and the conventional Dart engines replaced by a pair of General Electric T64s;[6] the twin-boom tail featured on the V/STOL concept was also eliminated and replaced by a more conventional single tail configuration; subsequently the new aircraft had no V/STOL capability but retained considerable short take-off/landing (STOL) performance.[8]

Fiat G.222TCM development aircraft exhibited at the 1977 Paris Air Show.

On 18 July 1970, the first prototype performed the aircraft's maiden flight with test pilot Vittorio Sanseverino at the controls. By late April 1971, the prototype had reportedly conducted a total of 22 flights and accumulated 50 hours of flight time, during which its performance was claimed to have been highly close to predictions.[9] In December 1971, the Italian Air Force, who had placed a provisional order for the developing type, formally began evaluating the G.222 and the performance of the two prototypes then in service. Following a successful testing period, the AMI contract for 44 aircraft was issued to Aeritalia (of which Fiat Aviazione had since become a part).[10] In December 1975, the first production aircraft conducted its first flight.[7] In April 1978, this same aircraft formally entered service with the AMI.[11] Following on from its introduction by the AMI, the G.222 was procured as a tactical transport aircraft by various international customers, including Argentina, Nigeria, Somalia, Venezuela and Thailand.[12]

In December 1978, Aeritalia elected to transfer final assembly of the G.222 from Turin to Naples, at which point a total of 44 firm orders had been obtained for the type and one aircraft per month was being manufactured.[13] Manufacturing of the G.222 was broken down into various companies; construction of the fuselage was performed at Naples, the center-section of the wing was produced by Piaggio, the wing panels were made by Macchi, the tail surfaces were built by SIAI-Marchetti, the engine nacelles by IAM, and the T64 engines were license-manufactured by Alfa Romeo and Fiat.[14]

Further development

[edit]
A C-27A taxiing at McChord AFB, Washington, 1998

In 1977, Libya sought the purchase of 20 G.222s; this was vetoed by the U.S. Government, who had imposed an embargo on military arms and equipment to Libya, which included the G.222's T64 engines. To get around this restriction, Aeritalia developed a version of the G.222 powered by the Rolls-Royce Tyne engine and other US supplied equipment was replaced by European equivalents; the more powerful Tyne engine also reportedly gave this variant superior "hot and high" performance.[15] The provision of alternative powerplants was viewed by Aeritalia as a measure to widen the overall appeal of the G.222; the Tyne engine also reportedly possessed greater growth potential than the T64 engine.[7] In May 1980, the first G.222 equipped with the Tyne engine performed its maiden flight.[7] Libya placed an order for 20 Tyne-powered aircraft instead, with deliveries commencing from 1980.[1][7]

In order to extend the effective operational lifespan of the type, some operators have carried out extensive upgrade programs of the G.222. In the aftermath of Italian humanitarian missions in Bosnia and Somalia, in 1996 the AMI began undertaking a major update program on their G.222 fleet; modifications include cockpit lighting changes for compatibility with Night Vision Goggles to enable night operations, increasing the aircraft's self-defense capabilities, new communications and navigation systems, and the removal of obsolete equipment.[12] In July 2005, the Nigerian Air Force signed a $74.5 million contract with Alenia Aeronautica for the refurbishment of a total of five G.222s, as well as the purchase of a retired AMI G.222.[16]

In 1990, the United States Air Force selected the G.222 as the basis of a "Rapid-Response Intra-Theater Airlifter" (RRITA). Operated under the designation C-27A Spartan, ten G.222s were purchased and underwent avionics upgrades by Chrysler Aerospace. These aircraft were stationed at Howard AFB, Panama.[17] The USAF would later dispose of their C-27A fleet, partly due to shifting priorities between the Army and the Air Force and partly because of the impending introduction of a newer variant, the Alenia C-27J Spartan.[18]

Design

[edit]
Italian Air Force Alenia G.222RM radio and radar calibration aircraft, 2005

The G.222 is a twin turboprop-engine tactical military transport aircraft, and is designed to be capable of transporting equipment or troops in combat zones and operating with minimal ground support.[12] Early production aircraft were exclusively fitted with the General Electric T64-GE-P4D turboprop engine, the licence-built Rolls-Royce Tyne was made available as an alternative powerplant for the type from 1980 onwards, while the Allison T56 was another proposed powerplant for the type.[7][9] Due to features such as double-slotted flaps, stacked brakes, and reversible propellers,[19] the G.222 has excellent short landing capabilities and is able to land in as little as 1,800 feet.[20] It was designed to be integrated with the larger, commonplace Lockheed C-130 Hercules.[5]

The G.222's cargo deck can carry up to 9,000 kg (19,840 lb) of cargo, or alternatively up to 53 troops, or 32 paratroopers, or a maximum of 36 stretchers with six attending medics in a medevac capacity.[14][20][11] The cargo deck has a large rear ramp, allowing the loading of palletised goods and vehicles, as well as sliding doors on either side of the fuselage, which are capable of being used to deploy paratroopers.[21] Various pallet-based special mission equipment could be readily installed to enhance the aircraft's capabilities for diverse roles such as VIP transport, maritime patrol, aerial firefighting, and calibration functions; this equipment could also be removed quickly in order for aircraft to be returned to conventional transport missions.[14] To easily facilitate the loading of a wide range of cargos, the height of the landing gear can be manually controlled.[22]

In part due to the austere maintenance requirements of the G.222 and its capability of operating from short unprepared airstrips in remote regions, it has seen heavy use for performing various humanitarian missions across Africa, East Asia, Europe and Central America.[5][12]

The cockpit provides excellent external visibility for pilots, most of the key controls are centrally placed between the two pilots, enabling the aircraft to be flown by a single pilot under certain circumstances.[9][12] The standard G.222 is equipped with various avionics, such as a nose-mounted Doppler radar, navigational computers, radio systems, and a Rockwell Collins-built autopilot.[14] Electronic receiver equipment and up to ten control consoles were installed upon a number of G.222s for performing electronic reconnaissance missions.[14] Some aircraft were fitted with aerial refuelling probes and associated equipment.[22] Some Italian G.222s have been equipped with a self-protection suite, which uses multiple forms of sensors to warn against identified threats, this suite also includes several countermeasures such as chaff and flare dispensers.[22]

Operational history

[edit]
Alenia G.222 at Pisa International Airport, 1981

In 1978, the 98th Group of the 46th Transport Air Wing became the first squadron of the Italian Air Force to receive the G.222. The type was promptly placed into a support capacity, not only to the Italian Air force but also for humanitarian and civil protection.[5]

The G.222 has seen considerable service in air relief and military supply operations. From 1979 onwards, Italy, along with other Western nations, provided considerable military aid to Somalia, part of the Italian contribution was four G.222s.[23] In 1982, three Ejército Argentino G.222s were operational during the Falklands War, and may have participated in a logistical capacity.[24] In 1983, a single Italian Air Force G.222 was outfitted for fire suppression duties, alongside an existing C-130 in the same role.[25]

On 3 September 1992, an Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare Italiana) G.222 was shot down when approaching Sarajevo airfield while conducting a United Nations relief mission. It crashed 18 miles (29 km) from the airfield; a NATO rescue mission was aborted when 2 USMC CH-53 helicopters came under small arms fire. The cause of the crash was determined to be a surface-to-air missile, but it was not clear who shot it. Everyone on board – four Italian crew members and four French passengers – died in the crash.[26][27][28]

An Italian G-222 arrives at Sion Air Show in Switzerland, 1986

In November 1999, the Italian Air Force placed an initial order for twelve new-build aircraft of an upgraded G.222 derivative, designated as the C-27J, as a replacement for their existing G.222s.[29][30] In December 2002, Alenia Aermacchi agreed to purchase a total of 39 G.222s that had been previously operated by the Italian Air Forces under a trade-in arrangement as part of the agreed C-27J purchase.[31] In 2005, the Italian Air Force started the phased retirement of their G.222 fleet.[32][33] Several of the former Italian Air Force G.222s have been refurbished to operational conditions and resold by Alenia Aermacchi, the Nigerian Air Force became the first customer for these refurbished aircraft.[5][31]

In September 2008, Alenia North America was awarded a USAF contract to upgrade and refurbish 18 G.222s, to be transferred to and used by the Afghan Air Force. Ballistic protection, adaptations for serving in the conditions of Afghanistan, and many new avionics systems, including a digital auto-pilot, were installed; two aircraft were also configured for VIP transport duties.[32][34][35] On 28 April 2010, the first two of the Afghan Air Force's recently delivered G.222s made their first public display during the Mujahideen Victory Day.[36] In January 2013, the USAF decided not to renew the support contract for the Afghan fleet due to claimed serviceability issues and operational difficulties; Alenia responded, stating that the fleet was exceeding the requirements laid out by the USAF, with 10–12 aircraft available for operations against the requirement for six.[37]

Afghan Air Force C-27A, 2010

The 16 G.222s delivered to Afghanistan were scrapped in the summer of 2014 by the Defense Logistics Agency.[38] After the U.S. spent $486 million to buy 20 C-27As, 16 were sold as scrap to an Afghan construction company for about $32,000; the planes were reportedly scrapped "to minimize impact on drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan." The four remaining aircraft are stored at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, with the U.S. seeking other interested buyers. From January to September 2012, the Afghan C-27A fleet flew only 234 out of 4,500 required hours.[39] The C-17A fleet had been procured for their keep attributes to enable them to operate in Afghanistan terrain, they were former Italian G.222. However, they ended up being replaced by C-130H after maintenance difficulties.[40]

Variants

[edit]
Memorial to the downed G.222 over Bosnia at Marina di Pisa
G.222TCM
Initial designation, two prototypes for the Italian Air Force[1]
G.222A
Standard transport version for the Italian Air Force
G.222RM
(Radiomisura - "radio measurements")- radio/radar calibration aircraft
G.222SAA
(Sistema Aeronautico Antincendio - "aeronautical fire-fighting system") - fire-fighter equipped for dumping water or fire retardant chemicals. Four built for Italian Air Force.
G.222T
Version powered by the Rolls-Royce Tyne for the Libyan Air Force. Sometimes designated G.222L.[1]
G.222VS
(Versione Speciale - "special version") ECM version - two built for Italian Air Force. Sometimes designated G.222GE.[1]
C-27A Spartan
Ten G.222s purchased for the United States Air Force.[1]
C-27J Spartan
See Alenia C-27J Spartan.

Operators

[edit]
An Italian Air Force G.222A at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2009
A Royal Thai Air Force G.222 during an emergency evacuation exercise at COBRA GOLD '01, with a US Army UH-60Q Black Hawk helicopter
Former Thai Air Force G.222 in an aviation museum
An Afghan Air Force C-27 at Hamid Karzai International Airport, 2010

Current operators

There are no known current operators (March 2024)

Former operators

 Afghanistan
  • Afghan Air Force has received several former Italian Air Force G.222s under a USAF contract.[41] Following upgrades by Alenia, deliveries began in 2009. By December 2012, 16 aircraft had been delivered; the USAF canceled the contract then because of lack of maintenance support from Alenia[37][42] and scrapped them in summer of 2014.[38]
 Argentina
 Italy
  • Italian Air Force operated 56 aircraft (44 G.222A, 4 G.222RM, 4 G.222SAA, 2 G.222TCM and 2 G.222VS). Officially retired in September 2005, but at least 1 G.222VS aircraft remains operational.[45][46]
 Libya
 Nigeria
 Peru
 Thailand
 Somalia
 Tunisia
 United Arab Emirates
 United States
 Venezuela


Specifications (G.222)

[edit]
C-27A Spartan in flight, 1995
Nigerian G-222

Data from Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1985–86.[52]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 3 + 1 loadmaster / jumpmaster
  • Capacity: 53 fully-equipped troops / 40 fully-equipped paratroops / 9,000 kg (20,000 lb) max. payload
  • Length: 22.7 m (74 ft 6 in)
  • Wingspan: 28.7 m (94 ft 2 in)
  • Height: 9.8 m (32 ft 2 in)
  • Aspect ratio: 9.15:1
  • Airfoil: NACA 64A315.2[53][clarification needed]
  • Empty weight: 14,590 kg (32,165 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 28,000 kg (61,729 lb)
  • Fuel capacity: 12,000 L (3,200 US gal; 2,600 imp gal) in four integral wing tanks
  • Powerplant: 2 × General Electric T64-GE-P4D turboprop engines, 2,535 kW (3,399 hp) each at ISA + 25 °C (77 °F)
  • Propellers: 3-bladed Hamilton Standard 63E60-27, 4.42 m (14 ft 6 in) diameter constant-speed fully reversilble-pitch constant-speed propellers

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 540 km/h (340 mph, 290 kn) at 4,575 m (15,010 ft) at Max TO weight
  • Cruise speed: 439 km/h (273 mph, 237 kn) at 6,000 m (20,000 ft) at Max TO weight
  • Airdrop speed: 204–259 km/h (127–161 mph; 110–140 kn) (paratroops and cargo)
  • Stall speed: 155 km/h (96 mph, 84 kn) flaps and landing speed down
  • Range: 1,371 km (852 mi, 740 nmi) with max. payload at optimum cruising speed and height
  • Ferry range: 4,633 km (2,879 mi, 2,502 nmi) with maximum fuel
  • Service ceiling: 7,620 m (25,000 ft)
  • Service ceiling, one engine out: 5,000 m (16,000 ft)
  • Rate of climb: 8.667 m/s (1,706.1 ft/min)
  • Time to altitude: 4,500 m (14,800 ft) 8 minutes 35 seconds
  • Wing loading: 341.5 kg/m2 (69.9 lb/sq ft)
  • Power/mass: 5.52 kg/kW (9.07 lb/hp)
  • Take-off run: 662 m (2,172 ft)
  • Take-off run to 15 m (49 ft): 1,000 m (3,300 ft)
  • Landing run at max landing weight: 545 m (1,788 ft)
  • Landing run from 15 m (49 ft): 775 m (2,543 ft)

See also

[edit]
External videos
video icon A G.222 performing a demonstration flight
video icon Video of the G.222 suffering a nose wheel collapse during a heavy landing

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References

[edit]

Citations

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d e f g Janes 2005, p. 421.
  2. ^ Donald (2000). p. 426.
  3. ^ Frawley 2002, p. 44.
  4. ^ Air International April 1977, pp. 163–164.
  5. ^ a b c d e "Alenia Aermacchi G.222: history and features." Archived 5 October 2018 at the Wayback Machine Alenia Aermacchi, Retrieved: 28 March 2016.
  6. ^ a b Air International April 1977, pp. 164, 166.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g "Tyne-powered G.222 variants planned." Flight International, 24 October 1981. p. 1262.
  8. ^ Evangelisti, Spinoni and Jones 1999, p. A11-2.
  9. ^ a b c Gilson 1971, p. 577.
  10. ^ Air International April 1977, pp. 167–168.
  11. ^ a b Taylor 1988, pp. 143–144
  12. ^ a b c d e Evangelisti, Spinoni and Jones 1999, p. A11-3.
  13. ^ "G.222." Flight International, p. 2108.
  14. ^ a b c d e "G.222." Flight International, 9 December 1978. p. 2113.
  15. ^ Air International April 1979, pp. 170–173.
  16. ^ Nkala, Oscar. "Nigerian Air Force takes delivery of 10 locally refurbished aircraft." defenceweb.co.za, 13 September 2013.
  17. ^ Donald and Lake 1996, p. 29.
  18. ^ McGowen 2012, p. 485.
  19. ^ Norton 2002, p. 6.
  20. ^ a b Schading 2011, p. 279.
  21. ^ Evangelisti, Spinoni and Jones 1999, pp. A11-2.
  22. ^ a b c Girolami and Quadro 2006, p. 1–3.
  23. ^ Humphrey 2007, p. 66.
  24. ^ Braybrook 1982, p. 8.
  25. ^ Tran Van Nao 1982, p. 121.
  26. ^ Sudetic, Chuck (4 September 1992). "U.N. Relief Plane Reported Downed on Bosnia Mission". New York Times. Archived from the original on 11 August 2014.
  27. ^ Fisk, Robert (4 September 1992). "UN fears aid aircraft was shot down by missile". The Independent. London. Archived from the original on 4 November 2012.
  28. ^ "Italy Says Bosnia Plane Likely Was Shot Down : Balkans: Defense minister cites evidence pointing to 'a criminal act' in crash of mercy flight near Sarajevo". Los Angeles Times. 5 September 1992. Archived from the original on 30 March 2020.
  29. ^ "The Italian Air Force is to buy 12 C-27J Spartan medium tactical transport aircraft to replace its fleet of G.222 transports, becoming the first customer for the Lockheed Martin/Alenia Aerospazio C-27J". Interavia Business & Technology, 1 December 1999.
  30. ^ Nativi, Andy. "Italian order launches C-27J." Flight International, 17 November 1999.
  31. ^ a b "G222 details surface." Flight International, 3 December 2002.
  32. ^ a b "Roll-out of the first G.222 aircraft, refurbished and modernized with systems and avionics, at Alenia Aeronautica's Capodichino plant". Defense & Aerospace Week, 22 July 2009.
  33. ^ "Italy retires first G222s." Flight International, 20 September 2005.
  34. ^ Kington, Tom. "First Refurbished G.222 Ready for Afghan Air Force"[dead link‍]. DefenseNews.com. Army Times Publishing Company, 6 July 2009. Retrieved: 6 July 2009.
  35. ^ Sobie, Brendan. "USAF may buy new self-protection system for Afghan-bound G222s." Flight International, 6 October 2008.
  36. ^ Hoyle, Craig. "PICTURES: Afghan G222s make public debut." Flight International, 29 April 2010.
  37. ^ a b Osborne, Anthony and Amy Butler. "U.S. Air Force Halts Troubled Afghan Air Force Transport Deal." Archived 20 May 2013 at the Wayback Machine Aviation Week, 4 January 2013.
  38. ^ a b Sopko, John F. Letter to Charles T. Hagel, Secretary of Defense Archived 18 October 2014 at the Wayback Machine, 3 October 2014. Retrieved: 10 October 2014.
  39. ^ DLA junks multimillion planes for Afghan Air Force, sells scrap for 6 cents a pound Archived 12 October 2018 at the Wayback Machine - Militarytimes.com, 9 October 2014.
  40. ^ Pocock, Chris. "New Twist to U.S. C-27 Saga With Afghan Scrappings | AIN". Aviation International News. Retrieved 29 October 2023.
  41. ^ Kington, Tom (27 February 2008). "Italian G-222s Ready for Afghan Use". DefenseNews.com. Army Times Publishing Company.[dead link‍]
  42. ^ "AirForces Monthly: The world's number one military aviation magazine". 12 December 2010. Archived from the original on 12 December 2010. Retrieved 22 March 2018.
  43. ^ Alenia G.222 image on Argentine military site Archived 16 June 2007 at the Wayback Machine
  44. ^ "World Air Forces 2016". flightglobal.com. December 2015. Archived from the original on 19 January 2016. Retrieved 11 December 2015.
  45. ^ "Italian Air Force". aeroflight. Retrieved 3 June 2019.
  46. ^ "Aeritalia G.222". Aeronautica Militare. Retrieved 3 June 2019.
  47. ^ Feldman 2004, p. 206.
  48. ^ "Nigeria Airforce; search 'G222'". scramble.nl. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
  49. ^ "Rtaf G.222". Archived from the original on 8 August 2014. Retrieved 1 August 2014.
  50. ^ "Somalia Airforce; search 'G222'". scramble.nl. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
  51. ^ "Tunisia Airforce; search 'G222'". scramble.nl. Retrieved 27 March 2024.
  52. ^ Taylor, John W.R.; Munson, Kenneth, eds. (1985). Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1985–86 (76th ed.). London: Jane's Pub. pp. 138–140. ISBN 9780710608215.
  53. ^ Lednicer, David. "The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". m-selig.ae.illinois.edu. Retrieved 16 April 2019.

Bibliography

[edit]
  • "Two Twenty Two - Aeritalia's Airlifter". Air International. April 1977, Vol 12 No. 4. pp. 163–170, 202.
  • "An Italian Mini-Hercules:The Versatile Two-Twenty-Two". Air International, April 1979, Vol 16 No. 4. pp. 170–173, 197-98.
  • Baybrook, Roy. Battle for the Falklands (3): Air Forces, Osprey Publishing, 1982. ISBN 0-85045-493-X.
  • Donald, David; Jon Lake (2000). The Encyclopedia of World Military Aircraft. NY, NY: Barnes & Noble. p. 426. ISBN 0-7607-2208-0.
  • Donald, David and Lake, Jon. Encyclopedia of World Aircraft. Single Volume Edition. London:Aerospace Publishing, 1996. ISBN 1-874023-95-6.
  • Eden, Paul, ed. "Alenia G222 and C-27, Mini-Hercules". Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft. Amber Books, 2004. ISBN 1-904687-84-9.
  • Endres, Günter and Michael J. Gething. Jane's Aircraft Recognition Guide. HarperCollins UK, 2005. ISBN 0-00-718332-1.
  • Evangelisti, Gianluca., Maurizio Spinoni., and Patrick F. Jones. "Enhancing Tactical Transport Capabilities: Cockpit Evolution from G222 to C-27J". NATO Research and Technology Organisation, April 1999.
  • Feldman, Shai. The Middle East Strategic Balance, 2003–2004. Sussex Academic Press, 2004. ISBN 1-84519-003-3.
  • Frawley, Gerard (2002). The International Directory of Military Aircraft, 2002–2003. Fyshwick, ACT, Australia: Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd. p. 44. ISBN 1-875671-55-2.
  • Gilson, Charles. "Italy's aircraft industry." Flight International, 29 April 1971. pp. 576–582.
  • Girolami, Claudio and Mauro Quadro. C-27J Spartan: Paratroops and Loads Airdrop Qualification. Alenia Aeronautica, October 2006.
  • Humphrey, James Harry. Issues in Contemporary Athletics. Nova Publishers, 2007. ISBN 1-59454-595-2.
  • McGowan, Sam. Anything, Anywhere, Anytime: Tactical Airlift in the Us Army Air Forces and Us Air Force from World War II to Vietnam. AuthorHouse, 2012. ISBN 1-4685-0563-7.
  • Norton, Bill. STOL progenitors: the technology path to a large STOL transport and the C-17A. American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 2002. ISBN 1-56347-538-3.
  • Schading, Barbara. A Civilian's Guide to the U.S. Military: A Comprehensive Reference to the Customs, Language and Structure of the Armed Forces. Writer's Digest, 2011. ISBN 1-59963-331-0.
  • Taylor, John W.R. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1988–89. Coulsdon, UK: Jane's Defence Data, 1988. ISBN 0-7106-0867-5.
  • Tran Van Nao. Forest Fire Prevention and Control. Springer, 1982. ISBN 90-247-3050-3.
[edit]
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