December 19, 2009: The Nigerian Air Force has received the first of two ATR-42MP maritime patrol aircraft. The  ATR-42MP is an 18 ton, twin turboprop aircraft. Most of the 400+ ATR-42s built are used as passenger or cargo aircraft. Italy and Libya also use the MP versions, which are fitted with a sea search radar and other sensors. This version can stay out for about six hours per sortie. The ATR-43 is a joint French-Italian effort, and the aircraft first entered service in 1985.