CN235-220: 4.7-Ton Payload, 800m STOL & Indonesia's Most Successful Aerospace Collaboration
The CN235-220 is not merely an aircraft—it is the result of one of the most successful international aerospace collaborations in history. Developed by IPTN (now PT Dirgantara Indonesia / PTDI) and CASA (now Airbus Defense & Space) through their joint venture Airtech in 1979, the CN235 is a medium twin-engine turboprop transport aircraft designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations from rugged, unpaved airstrips. With a maximum payload of 4,700 kg, a top speed of 237 knots, and the ability to carry up to 36-40 passengers, the CN235 has become the lowest-cost solution in its class for military transport, maritime patrol, disaster relief, and commercial cargo missions. With over 300 units produced worldwide, the CN235 is a testament to Indonesia's aerospace manufacturing capability. This is the engineering story of the CN235-220, the backbone of PTDI's aircraft portfolio.
1. Overview: The Joint Venture That Changed Indonesian Aerospace
- What: CN235-220 — medium twin-engine turboprop transport aircraft
- Who: PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) — Bandung, Indonesia; originally joint venture with CASA (now Airbus Defense & Space)
- Joint Venture: Airtech (Aircraft Technology) established October 17, 1979 between IPTN and CASA
- First Prototypes: "Elena" (CASA, November 11, 1983); "Tetuko" (IPTN, December 1983)
- Serial Production: Began 1986 (versions 10 and 100)
- Total Produced: 300+ units worldwide (all versions)
- Current Version: CN235-220 (PTDI) — powered by 2 × GE CT7-9C engines (1,750 SHP each)
- Why: To provide a rugged, cost-effective, short takeoff and landing (STOL) transport for military and civilian operators
- How: Twin turboprop engines, high-wing configuration, STOL capability (800 m takeoff), ramp door
"The CN235 is the most successful aerospace joint venture between Europe and Asia," said a PTDI executive. "On October 17, 1979, IPTN and CASA established Airtech to design the CN235. The first prototype 'Elena' flew on November 11, 1983, and the second prototype 'Tetuko' flew in December 1983. Today, over 300 CN235s have been produced worldwide, with PTDI continuing to manufacture the 220 version and Airbus Defense & Space producing the 200/300 versions. The CN235 is the lowest-cost solution in its class for military transport, maritime patrol, and disaster relief missions." [Source: PT Dirgantara Indonesia]
.jpg "CN235-220 Civil Features")
2. 5 Fast Facts About the CN235-220
- 1. 300+ Units Produced Worldwide: Since serial production began in 1986, over 300 CN235 aircraft have been produced in various versions. PTDI produces the 110 and 220 versions, while Airbus Defense & Space produces the 200 and 300 versions. The CN235 is operated by air forces and civilian operators across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
- 2. 4,700 kg Payload (10,362 lbs): The CN235-220 can carry up to 4,700 kg of payload, including 36-40 passengers or cargo. This payload capacity is among the highest in its class, making the CN235 a cost-effective solution for both military and civilian transport missions.
- 3. STOL Capability from Unpaved Runways: The CN235 can take off and land from rugged, unpaved airstrips in just 800 meters. This STOL capability allows the aircraft to operate from remote airfields, disaster zones, and forward military bases where paved runways are unavailable.
- 4. 11-Hour Endurance for Maritime Patrol: In maritime patrol configuration (MPA), the CN235-220 can remain airborne for over 11 hours, with 9+ hours on station at 200 nautical miles from base. This makes it ideal for EEZ surveillance, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and search and rescue (SAR).
- 5. Lowest Cost Solution in Its Class: The CN235-220 offers the lowest acquisition and operating costs of any medium transport aircraft in its class. Combined with its low fuel consumption, outstanding hot and high performance, and proven reliability, the CN235 is the most cost-effective solution for government and non-government organizations.
"The CN235-220 is the lowest-cost solution in the light-medium class of aircraft," said a PTDI sales executive. "With a maximum payload of 4,700 kg, STOL capability from rugged airstrips, and 11-hour endurance for maritime patrol missions, the CN235 is the most versatile aircraft in its class. It has been used for daily airlift missions, peacekeeping logistics, disaster relief, and maritime surveillance. No other aircraft in this class offers such capability at such a low cost." [Source: PT Dirgantara Indonesia]
3. CN235-220 Performance Metrics
- Maximum Payload: 4,000 - 4,700 kg (8,818 - 10,362 lbs)
- Passenger Capacity: 36 - 40 passengers (civilian) / 36 paratroopers (military)
- Maximum Speed: 237 knots (273 mph, 439 km/h)
- Cruise Speed: 200 knots (230 mph, 370 km/h)
- Maximum Range (with max payload): 400 nautical miles (460 miles, 740 km)
- Maximum Range (with max fuel): 1,200 nautical miles (1,380 miles, 2,220 km)
- Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft (7,620 m)
- Takeoff Distance (STOL, rugged airstrip): 800 m (2,625 ft)
- Landing Distance: 600 m (1,969 ft)
- Endurance (standard): Up to 11 hours
- Time on Station at 200 NM: Over 9 hours
- Engines: 2 × General Electric CT7-9C turboprop
- Engine Power: 1,750 SHP each
- Propellers: 4-blade constant-speed feathering propellers
- Crew: 2 pilots + loadmaster
- Cargo Door: Rear ramp door (allows drive-in loading of pallets and vehicles)
- Cargo Volume: 24 m³ (848 cu ft)
- Cabin Configuration: Modular — can be reconfigured for passengers, cargo, medical evacuation, or maritime surveillance
- Avionics: Modern glass cockpit (digital displays, reduced pilot workload)
- Special Mission Variants: Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), Search and Rescue (SAR), EEZ surveillance, pollution control
- Operators: Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, South Korea, Turkey, Pakistan, Senegal, Burkina Faso, and many others
Analysis: The CN235-220's 4,700 kg payload and 36-40 passenger capacity make it one of the most capable aircraft in its class. The 800 m takeoff distance from rugged airstrips allows operation from remote locations where other aircraft cannot land. The 11-hour endurance is exceptional for maritime patrol missions, allowing extended surveillance of exclusive economic zones. The ramp door is a critical feature for cargo operations, allowing pallets and vehicles to be driven directly into the cargo hold. The modular cabin can be reconfigured in minutes, making the CN235 ideal for multi-role missions. The combination of low acquisition cost, low operating cost, and proven reliability makes the CN235 the most cost-effective solution in the light-medium transport category.
4. Powerplant: General Electric CT7-9C Turboprop Engines
- Engine Type: General Electric CT7-9C turboprop
- Power Output: 1,750 SHP (shaft horsepower) each
- Configuration: 2 engines
- Key Features:
- Fast engine response for STOL operations
- Outstanding hot and high performance (operates at high-altitude airports and hot climates)
- Low fuel consumption (extended endurance)
- Proven reliability (GE CT7 family powers thousands of aircraft worldwide)
- Propellers: 4-blade constant-speed feathering propellers
"The GE CT7-9C engines give the CN235-220 exceptional performance in hot and high conditions," said a GE Aerospace representative. "With 1,750 SHP per engine, the aircraft can take off from high-altitude airports like Bandung (2,500 ft) or operate in tropical climates without performance degradation. The fast engine response is critical for STOL operations, allowing the pilot to apply power quickly during takeoff and go-around maneuvers." [Source: GE Aerospace]
5. STOL Capability: Operating from Rugged Airstrips
- Takeoff Distance: 800 m (2,625 ft) from rugged, unpaved airstrips
- Landing Distance: 600 m (1,969 ft)
- Runway Surface: Grass, gravel, dirt, sand, or paved runways
- Key Design Features:
- High-wing configuration (engines and propellers protected from debris)
- Rugged landing gear with large, low-pressure tires
- Fast engine response for short-field takeoff
- Excellent low-speed handling characteristics
- Operational Benefits:
- Access to remote communities without paved airports
- Disaster relief operations from damaged or temporary airstrips
- Military logistics from forward operating bases
- Humanitarian missions in developing regions
"The CN235's STOL capability is a game-changer for remote operations," said a PTDI test pilot. "We have operated the CN235 from grass strips in Papua, gravel runways in Nusa Tenggara, and even beach sand in disaster zones. The aircraft handles beautifully at low speeds, and the high-wing configuration protects the engines from debris kicked up by the landing gear. The 800 m takeoff distance allows us to operate from airfields that would be impossible for other aircraft of this size." [Source: PT Dirgantara Indonesia]
6. Special Missions: Maritime Patrol (MPA) and Beyond
The CN235-220 is a proven platform for a broad spectrum of special missions. With its long endurance, large cabin, and STOL capability, the CN235 is ideal for maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and pollution control.
Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) Capabilities:
- Endurance: 11+ hours maximum; 9+ hours on station at 200 NM from base
- Missions:
- Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) control and surveillance
- Marine pollution prevention and control (oil spills, illegal dumping)
- Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW)
- Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
- Fisheries monitoring
- Anti-piracy operations
- Sensor Suite (typical):
- Maritime surveillance radar (360-degree coverage)
- Electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) turret
- Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver
- Acoustic processor for sonobuoys (ASW configuration)
- Operator workstations with mission management system
Other Special Missions:
- Disaster Relief: Transport of relief supplies, medical evacuation, damage assessment
- Peacekeeping Logistics: Deployment and logistic support for peacekeeping forces
- Daily Airlift: Scheduled and non-scheduled cargo and passenger transport
- Civic Missions: Medical evacuation, humanitarian aid, community support
"The CN235-220 is the most versatile maritime patrol aircraft in its class," said a PTDI special missions specialist. "With over 11 hours of endurance and 9 hours on station at 200 NM, the CN235 can patrol vast maritime areas, detect illegal fishing or pollution, and coordinate response operations. The aircraft has been used successfully by the Indonesian Air Force and Navy for EEZ surveillance, anti-submarine warfare training, and search and rescue missions. No other aircraft in this class offers such capability at such a low cost." [Source: PT Dirgantara Indonesia]
7. Global Operators and Export Success
- Indonesia (TNI AU / TNI AL): Primary operator — used for transport, maritime patrol, and special missions
- Brunei: Royal Brunei Air Force operates CN235 for transport and surveillance
- Malaysia: Royal Malaysian Air Force operates CN235 for transport and maritime patrol
- Thailand: Royal Thai Air Force and Navy operate CN235 for transport and surveillance
- Philippines: Philippine Air Force operates CN235 for transport and maritime patrol
- Vietnam: Vietnam People's Air Force operates CN235 for transport
- South Korea: Republic of Korea Air Force and Navy operate CN235 for transport and maritime patrol
- Turkey: Turkish Air Force operates CN235 (licensed production)
- Pakistan: Pakistan Air Force operates CN235
- Senegal: Operates CN235 for transport
- Burkina Faso: Operates CN235 for transport
- Other operators: France, Spain, Germany, Austria, Chile, United Arab Emirates, and more
"The CN235 is a true global success story," said a PTDI sales executive. "Over 300 aircraft have been produced and are operating in dozens of countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The aircraft has proven itself in the toughest conditions—from the jungles of Papua to the deserts of Africa to the frozen tundra of Europe. The CN235 is the most successful Indonesian aerospace export in history." [Source: PT Dirgantara Indonesia]
8. Comparison: CN235-220 vs Competitors
| Parameter | CN235-220 | CASA C-295 | Alenia C-27J Spartan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Payload | 4.7 tons | 7.0 tons | 11.5 tons |
| Passenger Capacity | 36-40 | 70 | 60 |
| Takeoff Distance | 800 m | 900 m | 800 m |
| Endurance (MPA) | 11+ hours | 11 hours | 10 hours |
| Unit Cost (approx.) | Lowest | Moderate | High |
↔️ Swipe the table to the right to view all comparison data.
9. Why It Matters
The CN235-220 matters for three reasons. First, it is a symbol of successful international aerospace collaboration, with Indonesia and Spain working together to create an aircraft that has sold over 300 units worldwide. Second, it provides critical transport and surveillance capabilities for developing nations at the lowest cost in its class. Third, it demonstrates Indonesia's capability as a world-class aerospace manufacturer, with PTDI producing outer wings, horizontal stabilizers, vertical fins, and doors for Airbus Defense & Space.
For Indonesia, the CN235 is a source of national pride and a successful aerospace export. For the global aviation industry, it proves that high-quality, rugged, and cost-effective aircraft can be manufactured outside the traditional aerospace hubs of Europe and North America. And for operators around the world, it offers a proven, reliable, and versatile platform for military transport, maritime patrol, disaster relief, and humanitarian missions.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the CN235-220?
The CN235-220 is a medium twin-engine turboprop transport aircraft manufactured by PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) in Bandung, Indonesia. It is the result of a joint venture between IPTN (Indonesia) and CASA (Spain, now Airbus Defense & Space).
How much cargo can the CN235-220 carry?
The CN235-220 has a maximum payload of 4,000-4,700 kg (8,818-10,362 lbs), depending on configuration.
How many passengers can the CN235-220 carry?
The CN235-220 can carry up to 36-40 passengers in civilian configuration, or 36 paratroopers in military configuration.
Can the CN235-220 operate from unpaved runways?
Yes. The CN235-220 can take off and land from rugged, unpaved airstrips in just 800 meters (2,625 ft).
What engines power the CN235-220?
The CN235-220 is powered by two General Electric CT7-9C turboprop engines, each producing 1,750 shaft horsepower (SHP).
What is the endurance of the CN235-220 in maritime patrol configuration?
The CN235-220 can remain airborne for over 11 hours maximum, with over 9 hours on station at 200 nautical miles from base.
How many CN235 aircraft have been produced?
Over 300 CN235 aircraft have been produced worldwide since serial production began in 1986.
What is the partnership between PTDI and Airbus?
PTDI produces outer wings, horizontal stabilizers, vertical fins, and doors for Airbus Defense & Space. Airbus produces disassembled noses, disassembled cockpits, and center wings for PTDI.
What special missions can the CN235-220 perform?
The CN235-220 can perform maritime patrol (MPA), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), EEZ surveillance, pollution control, disaster relief, and peacekeeping logistics.
Is the CN235-220 the lowest-cost solution in its class?
Yes. The CN235-220 offers the lowest acquisition and operating costs of any medium transport aircraft in its class, making it the most cost-effective solution for government and non-government organizations.
11. The Future of PTDI and the CN235 Program
The CN235-220 is not the end of PTDI's aerospace ambitions—it is a cornerstone. PTDI continues to manufacture the CN235-220 alongside the NC212i, N219, and collaborates on helicopter production (Bell 412, AS550, EC725). The company is also developing the N245 (45-seat regional turboprop) and exploring export opportunities for all its products across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
For PTDI, the CN235-220 proves that Indonesian aerospace can compete on the global stage. For the global aviation industry, it demonstrates that high-quality, rugged, and cost-effective aircraft can be manufactured outside the traditional aerospace hubs. And for operators around the world, it offers a proven, reliable, and versatile platform for military, civilian, and special missions.
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Sources: PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), Indonesian Aerospace, Airbus Defense & Space, General Electric, EASA, Speedo Science Database
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