Alenia Aeronautica has notched up an order for four C-27J Spartan tactical airlifters, though the customer has yet to be made public.

The sale is to a non-NATO Mediterranean state that has stipulated it not be identified for now.

The order, which was competed, is valued at 130 million euros ($185 million). The first aircraft is to be delivered in 18 months. The aircraft configuration includes additional ballistic protection and an on-board oxygen generation system. Whether the aircraft will be fitted with a defensive aids suite has also to be yet ascertained.

The latest sale brings the C-27J order book to 121 aircraft. The U.S. Army will receive its first C-27J on Sept. 25 at the L-3 Waco facility. While Alenia Aeronautica and Boeing have yet to finalize an agreement that would bring the latter company back onboard the program, work on the U.S. assembly plant in Jacksonville, Fla., is proceeding.

Photo: Alenia Aeronautica