Airbus Defence and Space has delivered two C295 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) to Angola, completing the country’s three-aircraft order and significantly enhancing its ability to monitor and protect its Atlantic coastline.
According to the manufacturer, the new aircraft will support search and rescue operations, combat illegal fishing, strengthen border control, and assist in maritime traffic monitoring and intelligence-gathering missions for the Angolan Air Force (Força Aérea Nacional de Angola).
First dedicated C295 MSA fleet in Africa
Angola ordered three C295s in 2022, comprising two in maritime surveillance configuration and one tactical transport. The first, a transport-configured C295W, was delivered in 2024 and is used for cargo, paratroop, and humanitarian missions.
The two newly delivered aircraft are the first C295s in Africa equipped with Airbus’ Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS), which combines radar, electro-optical sensors, and mission systems across multiple operator consoles. The setup allows crews to detect and track maritime targets, share data with command centers, and coordinate operations with naval and coast guard assets.
All three aircraft are equipped with Collins Aerospace’s Pro Line Fusion avionics suite, which features a modern glass cockpit and enhanced situational awareness capabilities.
Strengthening Angola’s maritime security
With a 1,600-kilometer Atlantic coastline and vital offshore energy infrastructure, Angola faces persistent challenges from illegal fishing, smuggling, and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. The C295 MSAs will enable extended surveillance coverage, bolstering inter-agency efforts alongside the navy and coast guard.
The government has invested in new patrol vessels and maritime coordination systems to enhance domain awareness and protect national resources. The addition of the two C295 MSAs gives Angola a modern aerial surveillance capability to support its naval and coast guard forces.
Expanding the C295 footprint in Africa
Airbus reports that 54 C295s have now been ordered by 11 African air forces, reinforcing its position as the leading light transport and surveillance aircraft in the region. The type is already in service across the continent in roles spanning tactical airlift, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and maritime patrol.
By completing delivery of its three-aircraft fleet, Angola joins a growing list of African operators using the C295 to modernize airlift and surveillance capabilities with a single, multi-role platform.
