Images: Airbus Military studies CN235/C295 gunship variants.

[Stratofreighter]

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articl ... ts-371664/

http://www.airbusmilitary.com/Missions/ ... ecial.aspx

The Airbus Military CN235 has already been selected by one operator for a modified gunship programme in which it will be equipped with laser-guided air-to-surface missiles, 70mm rockets and a 30mm chain gun.
The C295 could be similarly modified.

Both types benefit from large unobstructed cabins for the required modifications, have hard-points for the necessary sensors, and excellent low-level handling qualities to make stable gun platforms while retaining 3g manoeuvrability.

In future the A400M has the potential to be an exceptionally powerful gunship able to carry a wide range of weapons including the largest guns with their heavy ammunition loads.

It could be equipped with a sophisticated mission system for the modern network-centric battlefield and has an extensive defensive aids suite for self-protection.
The A400M’s exceptional speed range and agile night low-flying capability will let it deploy rapidly to assist ground troops and then manoeuvre smoothly to ensure accurate targeting.
Aircraft