The C-27J can transport fighter and transport aircraft engines, such as C-130, Eurofighter Typhoon, F-16 and Mirage 2000, directly on their normal engine dollies without special equipment.

The Indian defence budget has reached about $27 billion (Rs 121,900 crore) in 2010 from about $22 billion (Rs 99,300 crore) in 2008. The Indian defence market has tremendous potential for growth with the government aspiring to procure specific technological capabilities for the development of an autonomous aerospace industry. Alenia Aernoautica is positive about being a part of the growing defence market.

Alenia Aeronautica is participating with its own C-27J in the tender for two tactical transport aircraft for the Border Security Force. The tender is being handled by the Indian Air Force that will also assure its initial operational use.

The C-27J aircraft will help secure the country’s mountainous borders and has during a series of tests proved to be extremely performing. The C-27J is capable of taking off from and landing on unprepared air strips, less-than-500 m long, with maximum take-off weight of 30,500 kg; it may carry up to 60 equipped soldiers or up to 46 paratroopers. Its air ambulance configuration can have 36 stretchers and 6 medical assistants.

The large cross section (2,60 metres high, 3,33 metres wide) and high floor strength (4,900 kg/m load capability) allows loading of heavy and large complete military equipment. The C-27J can transport fighter and transport aircraft engines, those of C-130, Eurofighter Typhoon, F-16 and Mirage 2000, directly on their normal engine dollies without the need for special equipment.