The Indonesian Aerospace N-245 is a STOL medium-lift military transport aircraft designed for tactical missions and regional connectivity.
The Indonesian Aerospace N-245 is a medium-lift, short take-off and landing (STOL) military transport aircraft designed to operate in challenging environments. Developed by PT Dirgantara Indonesia (Indonesian Aerospace), it is an upgraded version of the CN-235 platform, tailored for tactical and logistical missions. Powered by twin turboprop engines, the N-245 can carry up to 50 passengers or 6 tons of cargo. Its design emphasizes operational flexibility, with a rugged airframe suitable for unpaved runways and austere conditions. The aircraft features advanced avionics, enhanced payload capabilities, and a pressurized cabin for high-altitude missions. It can achieve a cruise speed of 509 km/h (316 mph) and has a range of 2,100 kilometers (1,305 miles). Designed for military and civilian applications, the N-245 aims to strengthen Indonesia’s aerospace industry while providing cost-effective solutions for regional and tactical air transport.
History of the development of the Indonesian Aerospace N-245
The development of the Indonesian Aerospace N-245 began in the early 2010s as part of Indonesia’s push to modernize its aerospace capabilities. The Indonesian government, recognizing the growing demand for a versatile and efficient transport aircraft, tasked PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) with creating an advanced platform based on the proven CN-235. The N-245 was designed to address gaps in tactical and regional transport while leveraging existing expertise in turboprop aircraft production.
The CN-235, developed in collaboration with CASA (now Airbus Military), had already proven its effectiveness in military and civilian roles. However, evolving requirements for payload, range, and operational flexibility necessitated a new design. The N-245 program was officially launched in 2015, with a focus on improving payload capacity, avionics, and STOL performance. The project aimed to provide the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) and regional operators with a reliable aircraft capable of operating in diverse and challenging environments.
Unlike the CN-235, the N-245 was designed with a pressurized cabin, allowing for higher-altitude operations and improved passenger comfort. The upgraded avionics suite included digital flight controls and navigation systems, enhancing situational awareness and reducing pilot workload. These features aligned with global trends in modern transport aircraft, ensuring the N-245 could compete in both military and civilian markets.
The N-245’s first prototype was completed in 2018, with flight tests conducted to validate its performance metrics. The aircraft demonstrated impressive STOL capabilities, operating from unpaved runways and short airstrips. Its robust airframe and twin-engine configuration provided reliability in austere conditions, addressing the needs of operators in remote and underdeveloped regions.
The development of the N-245 also aligned with Indonesia’s broader strategic objectives. The project sought to reduce dependence on foreign aircraft while fostering local expertise in aerospace manufacturing. PTDI collaborated with international suppliers for critical components, such as engines and avionics, but prioritized domestic production for structural elements and assembly. This approach supported Indonesia’s economic and industrial growth while ensuring the N-245 met international standards.
Despite initial delays due to funding and technical challenges, the N-245 progressed steadily through its development phases. By 2020, the aircraft had completed key certification milestones, paving the way for potential production. The Indonesian Air Force expressed interest in acquiring the N-245 for tactical transport and humanitarian missions, while neighboring countries also evaluated the aircraft for their requirements.
The N-245’s development highlights Indonesia’s commitment to advancing its aerospace industry. By building on the legacy of the CN-235, PTDI created a platform capable of addressing modern operational demands while contributing to the nation’s self-reliance in defense production.
Design of the Indonesian Aerospace N-245
The design of the Indonesian Aerospace N-245 reflects its focus on versatility, durability, and operational efficiency. Based on the CN-235, the N-245 incorporates significant upgrades to meet the evolving needs of military and civilian operators.
The aircraft features a high-wing configuration, providing excellent ground clearance and stability during takeoff and landing. This design enables operations from short and unpaved runways, a critical requirement for STOL-capable aircraft. The airframe is constructed primarily from lightweight aluminum alloys, balancing strength and weight efficiency. The N-245 has a maximum takeoff weight of 16,500 kilograms (36,376 pounds), accommodating up to 50 passengers or 6 tons of cargo.
The aircraft’s dimensions include a wingspan of 25.8 meters (84.6 feet) and a fuselage length of 21.4 meters (70.2 feet). Its spacious interior can be configured for various missions, including troop transport, medical evacuation, and cargo delivery. The pressurized cabin ensures passenger comfort during high-altitude flights, while the large rear cargo door facilitates rapid loading and unloading of equipment.
Powering the N-245 are two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines, each producing 2,160 shaft horsepower (1,610 kW). These engines provide the thrust necessary for STOL operations and ensure reliability in harsh conditions. The propellers are six-bladed composite units, designed to minimize noise and vibration while maximizing efficiency.
The avionics suite of the N-245 includes a fully digital cockpit with multi-function displays (MFDs), advanced flight management systems, and weather radar. These features enhance situational awareness and reduce pilot workload, making the aircraft easier to operate in complex environments. Additionally, the N-245 is equipped with modern communication and navigation systems, ensuring compliance with international airspace requirements.
One of the key advantages of the N-245 is its operational flexibility. The aircraft’s modular design allows for rapid reconfiguration, enabling it to switch between passenger, cargo, and mixed-use roles. However, its reliance on imported components, such as engines and avionics, poses challenges for supply chain independence. Despite this, the N-245’s overall design ensures reliability and adaptability in a wide range of missions.
Performance of the Indonesian Aerospace N-245
The Indonesian Aerospace N-245 delivers solid performance metrics tailored for tactical and regional transport missions. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines, the aircraft produces a combined output of 4,320 shaft horsepower (3,220 kW). This power enables the N-245 to achieve a maximum cruise speed of 509 km/h (316 mph) and a range of 2,100 kilometers (1,305 miles).
The aircraft’s STOL capabilities are a defining feature, allowing it to operate from runways as short as 800 meters (2,624 feet). This makes it ideal for remote areas with limited infrastructure. The N-245’s operational ceiling of 25,000 feet (7,620 meters) ensures it can perform high-altitude missions, providing flexibility in diverse operational scenarios.
With a maximum payload capacity of 6 tons, the N-245 can transport troops, cargo, or medical equipment efficiently. Its spacious cabin and large rear cargo door facilitate rapid reconfiguration, enabling the aircraft to switch between roles as needed. The pressurized cabin enhances passenger comfort during extended flights, making it suitable for regional connectivity.
The N-245’s performance compares favorably to its competitors, such as the C-295 and Dash 8-300. While the C-295 offers a higher payload capacity, the N-245’s STOL capabilities and lower operating costs make it an attractive option for operators in challenging environments. Similarly, the Dash 8-300’s superior range is offset by the N-245’s adaptability and tactical focus.
The Indonesian Aerospace N-245 is a robust and adaptable medium-lift transport aircraft designed for diverse missions. With advanced STOL capabilities, modern avionics, and a focus on cost-effective operations, it meets the needs of both military and civilian operators. Its development reinforces Indonesia’s commitment to aerospace innovation and regional connectivity.
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