Article Posted on : - May 03, 2013

BAE 146 C.MK 3 aircraft. Photo: BAE Systems.

LONDON (BNS): The Royal Air Force has received two BAe 146-200QC aircraft that have been converted from commercial to military configuration.

The UK Ministry of Defence have declared the aircraft as 'Released To Service' after a period of familiarisation and operational trials.

Known in RAF service as the BAe 146 C Mk.3, the two aircraft have been converted under a £15.5 million contract awarded to BAE Systems Regional Aircraft at Prestwick under an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR).

Among the military equipments fitted is a Defensive Aids System to enable these UOR aircraft to be protected to appropriate levels. Also installed is a Successor Identification Friend or Foe (SIFF) system.

A number of other upgrades have also been installed including HF and UHF radio communications systems and a SATCOM satellite communications system.

An armoured flight deck has been incorporated along with fuel tank inertion, air conditioning upgrades and a fire protection D-C system in the baggage bay.

The BAe 146 C Mk.3 is equipped with a large 131 inch wide and 76 inch high (3.33m x1.93m) rear upward-opening freight door giving a large aperture for the easy loading of pallets, containers and awkwardly-shaped cargo. The large cabin volume of the aircraft will allow up to 23,500 lbs (10.6 tonnes) of freight to be carried.

Both aircraft are assigned to the RAF's 32 (The Royal) Squadron which already operates two BAe 146 CC Mk 2 aircraft, primarily in the VIP transport role from RAF Northolt in north-west London.