Field Aviation has delivered the third of four missionized Challenger aircraft to Cobham Aviation Services. These aircraft will be used in search and rescue missions by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). The first aircraft are scheduled to enter service in August 2016.
Field Aviation designed, installed, flight-tested and certified structural, electrical and aerodynamic changes to the aircraft. These included a lavatory, galley and cabin area reconfiguration, as well as the installation of the sensor provisions and aerodynamic modifications. Once the aircraft arrive in Australia, Cobham Aviation Services will install sensors and a mission management system.
The jets have been specially modified to incorporate new-generation sensors and SAR equipment; two belly radomes (a search radar and a direction-finding system; a retractable EO/IR camera in the tail of the aircraft; conformal enlarged observation windows; a missionized interior; and an air-operable cargo door.
Field Aviation has a long history with Cobham Aviation Services on the Australian Border Protection program. It also has experience modifying Bombardier Challenger aircraft for the Royal Danish Air Force and Boeing’s Maritime Surveillance Aircraft program.
“Field Aviation is the global leader in missionizing the Bombardier Challenger platform and we are very excited to see these aircraft enter service this year with our long-term partner, Cobham Aviation Services,” said Brian Love, chief operating officer at Field Aviation. “Our partnership with Cobham extends beyond the initial delivery of these missionized aircraft as we will continue to support the aircraft throughout their service life.”
July 27, 2016
