Saudi Arabia is expanding its maritime surveillance and combat capabilities with the purchase of four Leonardo C-27J aircraft configured for maritime patrol. The Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) will operate the aircraft, which are expected to begin deliveries in 2029. These aircraft are being equipped for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare missions, marking a significant upgrade in the kingdom’s maritime defense.
Leonardo indicated that these will be the first C-27Js with a dedicated weapons capability for maritime operations, though specific weapons have not been disclosed. The order appears to have been finalized during the recent World Defense Show in Riyadh, where modifications such as winglets for fuel efficiency and wing-mounted weapons were discussed. The aircraft’s extended endurance and in-flight refueling capability make it suited for demanding maritime environments.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia had also contracted for two C-27Js operated by Aloula Aviation, announced at the Paris Air Show last year. Those aircraft are designed for versatile missions, including firefighting and oil spill response, with deliveries scheduled for 2027. This latest purchase signals a shift towards more dedicated maritime patrol assets in the region and may influence regional prospects for alternative platforms such as the Boeing P-8 Poseidon, which has sought entry into the Saudi market.
The Gulf region has traditionally depended on helicopters and unmanned systems for maritime patrol. Oman operates Airbus C295s, while the United Arab Emirates uses modified DHC-8 aircraft for surveillance. Leonardo’s C-27J provides a combination of endurance, speed, and refueling that is attractive for demanding operational scenarios, reinforcing its position as a leading maritime patrol platform in the region.
