The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) will obtain seven of Alenia Aermacchi’s C-27Js as part of an intra-service transfer from the United States Air Force (USAF).  The transfer was approved in late October by Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter.

Currently SOCOM is in possession of three fully operational aircraft, while the remaining four aircraft are completing final assembly modifications.  SOCOM is expected to receive all seven C-27Js by April 2014. Within SOCOM, the aircraft will be operated by the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

The transfer of these seven aircraft to SOCOM, an important U.S. military customer, validates the C-27j’s robust capabilities as a battlefield airlifter—one that is efficient, agile, and adaptable to the multi-mission requirements of today’s Special Forces.

“We are proud to have the opportunity to work with a premier U.S. customer that will benefit tremendously from the advanced capabilities of the C-27J. Our number one priority has and continues to be providing the most capable, best value aircraft for our men and women in the Armed Forces. We look forward to working with SOCOM to support these C-27Js throughout their lifecycle,” said Benjamin Stone, president and chief executive officer of Alenia Aermacchi North America.

He added that the final configuration for the aircraft designated for SOCOM has yet to be determined. “It is clear the U.S. Army acknowledges the value of our platform, and right now, we are working closely with the customer to better understand their requirements,” he said. “We remain focused on ensuring a seamless transition from USAF to SOCOM and bringing the aircraft into service with the Special Forces community.”

Alenia Aermacchi press release