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Tag: Bombardier Global 6000

  • PEGASUS Takes the Next Step: First Aircraft Lands in Germany

    Arrival marks the start of integration, testing and certification activities for Germany’s next-generation airborne SIGINT platform

    The modified Bombardier Global 6000 for the PEGASUS airborne SIGINT mission undergoing flight trials ahead of transfer to Germany. Photo: Bombardier Defense
    The modified Bombardier Global 6000 for the PEGASUS airborne SIGINT mission undergoing flight trials ahead of transfer to Germany. Photo: Bombardier Defense

    HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier Defense have reached another key milestone in the PEGASUS (Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System) programme: the first aircraft has successfully arrived in Germany. Following its transatlantic flight from Bombardier’s facility in Wichita, Kansas, the aircraft has landed at Lufthansa Technik’s headquarters in Hamburg last week, where the next major phase of the programme will now begin. 

    Led by national electromagnetic warfare champion HENSOLDT and employing the extensive special mission aircraft capabilities of Lufthansa Technik, the German MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) specialist, and of Bombardier, the Canadian aircraft manufacturer, the PEGASUS programme will provide the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) with a state-of-the-art airborne signals intelligence (SIGINT) capability. The arrival of the first aircraft marks the transition from platform design and development in the United States to the mission system integration and certification phase in Germany. 

    “This delivery marks a decisive step towards operational capability,” said Jürgen Halder, Vice President Airborne SIGINT at HENSOLDT. “With the arrival of the first aircraft in Hamburg, we are entering the crucial phase of system integration and qualification. Together with our partners, we are now moving from design and test into full implementation — bringing the next generation of airborne intelligence to life.” 

    “Bombardier’s high-performing Global aircraft are the go-to choice for the most demanding government missions around the world,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President, Bombardier Defense. “We are proud to collaborate with HENSOLDT and Lufthansa Technik to help bring this next-generation signals intelligence aircraft to the German Armed Forces.”  

    At Lufthansa Technik in Hamburg, the next steps will include the integration of the SIGINT system based on HENSOLDT’s Kalaetron Integral, the installation of the mission cabin, and the integration of additional military and communication systems. Moreover, the company will handle both civil and military certification of the aircraft. In parallel, preparations for entry-into-service support are already underway — including training of technical and flight personnel and the creation and provision of technical documentation — to ensure a smooth transition into operational use. 

    “Seeing the PEGASUS aircraft returning to Hamburg for their important next chapter is a proud moment for our teams,” said Michael von Puttkamer, Vice President Special Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. “This milestone marks the start of an exciting new phase in which we will bring together technology, craftsmanship, and special mission aircraft expertise to deliver one of the most advanced airborne intelligence platforms ever built.” 

    HENSOLDT acts as general contractor and holds overall responsibility for the realisation of the PEGASUS weapon system itself as well as the ground station, training facility and data analysis capabilities. Lufthansa Technik Defense serves as prime subcontractor, procuring and modifying the aircraft and integrating the reconnaissance system developed by HENSOLDT. Bombardier Defense provides the high-performance Global 6000 platform and supports the programme with its engineering and flight-testing expertise.  

    About HENSOLDT  

    HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked sensors. At the same time, the company is driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics and investing in new solutions based on software-defined defence. In addition, the company is expanding its range of offers to include new service models and is extending its portfolio of system solutions. In 2024, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 2.24 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 9,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.   

    www.hensoldt.net 

    About Lufthansa Technik Defense: 

    Since 2023, Lufthansa Technik AG has been underlining its strategic decision to become more involved in the military aircraft sustainment and modification market with its Lufthansa Technik Defense brand. It encompasses all activities in the defence business for the German Armed Forces and its NATO partners. Within this framework, the company is part of the industry teams in various current modernization and procurement programs for the German Air and Naval Forces. Besides PEGASUS, this also encompasses programmes such as the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and the CH-47 Chinook heavy transport helicopter. In addition, Lufthansa Technik Defense has signed a memorandum of understanding with Lockheed Martin, Rheinmetall, and ESG for technical support for the future German fleet of F-35 fighters. 

    About Bombardier Defense  

    Bombardier Defense offers something unique, combining Bombardier’s portfolio of top-performing Challenger and Global aircraft with unparalleled engineering and maintenance expertise to create custom solutions. Known for its collaborative and flexible approach, Bombardier Defense builds long-term partnerships with governments and militaries, as well as joining forces with the world’s most advanced mission system providers. Driven by a rich history of innovation, we are shaping the defense solutions of the future.  

    Bombardier Defense is based in Wichita, KS, with a manufacturing presence across North America. Leveraging Bombardier’s highly responsive, worldwide support network, we offer expert maintenance services and tailored support options to our government and military customers. Hundreds of Bombardier aircraft perform critical airborne missions around the world, including Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C), border and maritime patrol, multi-role, head of state transport, medevac, urgent humanitarian assistance and more.    

  • HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier Defense Announce Significant Progress on Global Aircraft Modification for German PEGASUS Program

    • Bombardier’s Global 6000 aircraft is the platform of choice by the German air force and the Cyber Command (CIR) to integrate the HENSOLDT Kalætron Integral signals intelligence (SIGINT) system for airborne surveillance missions
    • As part of its modification work package, Bombardier is establishing critical foundations for the aircraft’s upcoming systems integration, to be completed by Lufthansa Technik Defense in Hamburg, Germany
    • First aircraft has rolled out of Bombardier Defense modification line in Wichita, Kansas, to prepare for ground testing
    Bombardier's Global 6000 for the German PEGASUS Program ready to rollout of Bombardier's Wichita, KS, hangar.

    BERLIN, June 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier Defense announced today, on time for the ILA Berlin 2024 airshow, that the highly-specialized modification work on the Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System (PEGASUS) has achieved a significant milestone.

    Led by HENSOLDT for the German armed forces, the PEGASUS signal intelligence (SIGINT) system will be integrated on the Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft, the optimal platform to complete these critical missions. As part of this program, Bombardier was tasked with the foundational modification work package, collaboratively working with Lufthansa Technik Defense, who will complete the system integration at its special-mission centre in Hamburg, Germany. The first aircraft has now rolled out from the Bombardier Defense modification line in Wichita and is being prepared for the start of ground testing and for the subsequent flight. The remaining two aircraft are undergoing modifications in Bombardier’s facility.

    “Bombardier Defense is proud to have the trust of HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and the Luftwaffe to complete this critical work on the high-performing Global 6000 aircraft for the Pegasus program,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President for Bombardier Defense. “Thanks to our companies’ continued close collaboration and joint expertise, we are making important strides and have a clear line of sight on the aircraft’s upcoming milestones, including the start of the flight test campaign in the coming months.”

    “The roll-out following the recent passing of the Critical Design Review clearly shows that the PEGASUS program is on track,” says Jürgen Halder, Vice President Airborne SIGINT at HENSOLDT. “The underlying reconnaissance solution ‘KALAETRON Integral’ offers a worldwide unique high-performance reconnaissance capability based on powerful German key technology.”

    “The roll-out of the first structurally modified Global 6000 aircraft indeed marks a major milestone, not just as an important prerequisite for Lufthansa Technik Defense’s PEGASUS work packages, but for the overall progress of this pioneering signals intelligence aircraft project,” says Michael von Puttkamer, Vice President Special Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. “We thank HENSOLDT and Bombardier for the good cooperation, and we almost can’t wait to see this aircraft taking to the air, performing its flight tests and returning to Hamburg again, where in the upcoming systems integration phase we will be proud to build on the high-quality work of the team in Wichita.”

    In June 2021, HENSOLDT was awarded the contract to supply an airborne system for electronic signals intelligence on board three Bombardier jets based on its “Kalætron Integral” system, which collects and analyzes military signals from radar and radio systems. Since that award, HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier have collaborated closely on a joint design activity. At the end of 2023, HENSOLDT’s overall mission system design successfully passed customer acceptance. More recently, extensive structural modification work has been performed to prepare the first aircraft at Bombardier Defense’s U.S. base in Wichita, Kansas, which houses an important contingent of the company’s experienced and skilled defense workforce. This will also be the site of the initial ground and flight test activities. Upon completion of initial testing, each aircraft will be transferred to Lufthansa Technik Defense’s facilities in Hamburg for further integration work.

    The overall program is valued at over one billion euros. HENSOLDT is acting as general contractor and bears overall responsibility for the realization of the project. Lufthansa Technik Defense will act as a subcontractor, procuring the modified aircraft from Bombardier and fitting and integrating the reconnaissance system developed by HENSOLDT into the platform. Many small and medium sized enterprises from all over Germany, Canada and the U.S. are involved in the project as part of the supply chain for all companies bringing Pegasus to the finish line.

    About Bombardier

    At Bombardier (BBD-B.TO), we design, build, modify and maintain the world’s best-performing aircraft for the world’s most discerning people and businesses, governments and militaries. That means not simply exceeding standards, but understanding customers well enough to anticipate their unspoken needs.

    For them, we are committed to pioneering the future of aviation—innovating to make flying more reliable, efficient and sustainable. And we are passionate about delivering unrivaled craftsmanship and care, giving our customers greater confidence and the elevated experience they deserve and expect. Because people who shape the world will always need the most productive and responsible ways to move through it.

    Bombardier customers operate a fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft, supported by a vast network of Bombardier team members worldwide and 10 service facilities across six countries. Bombardier’s performance-leading jets are proudly manufactured in aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico.   

    About HENSOLDT 

    HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops complete sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked solutions. Being a technology leader, the company is also driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics and is continuously expanding its portfolio based on innovative approaches to data fusion, artificial intelligence and cyber security. In 2023, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.85 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 8,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.  www.hensoldt.net

    About Lufthansa Technik Defense

    Since 2023, Lufthansa Technik AG has underlined its strategic decision to participate more strongly in the market for the maintenance of military aircraft with its Lufthansa Technik Defense brand, under which all activities in the defense business for the German Armed Forces and its NATO partners are bundled. Besides the PEGASUS project, Lufthansa Technik is also part of the industrial teams in various other current modernization and procurement programs for the German air and naval forces, such as the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft or the CH-47 Chinook heavy transport helicopter. In addition, Lufthansa Technik Defense has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lockheed Martin, Rheinmetall and ESG for the technical support of the future German fleet of F-35 fighter aircraft.

  • Bombardier Defense Delivers Global 6000 Aircraft to the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Program

    • Bombardier Defense delivered the seventh Global 6000 aircraft to the U.S. Air Force for the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program  
    • Bombardier’s multi-year contract with the Air Force supports a unique and reliable airborne communications platform essential for critical missions around the world   
    • Global business jets have become go-to platforms for special missions around the world, thanks to their speed, payload capacity, reduced cost of maintenance, fuel efficiency, reliability, and endurance

    MONTRÉAL, Oct. 23, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier recently celebrated the seventh delivery of a Global 6000 aircraft to the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program at the company’s Hartford Service Centre, in Connecticut. 

    The BACN aircraft is a specialized communications platform, known in the USAF as the E-11A, that is part of a previously announced multi-year contract representing a potential total value of close to US$465 million. Bombardier has already delivered six Global aircraft to the BACN program under previous agreements. The USAF has the option to purchase an additional aircraft each year through 2026 under the 2021 contract.  

    “Bombardier Defense is proud to be a trusted partner of the U.S. Air Force,” said Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive Vice-President, Aircraft Sales and Bombardier Defense. “Our flexibility and mission-focused approach has made the Global aircraft exceedingly recognized as the optimal option for governments and defense contractors around the world. Leveraging state-of-the-art integrated technology and a team of high-skilled experts, Bombardier Defense continues to strengthen its ties with the U.S. Air Force and to deliver its renowned platforms utilized to reinforce national and international security.” 

    As part of the critical BACN program, Bombardier’s Global aircraft serve as high-altitude communications gateways, relaying or bridging voice and data between air and surface forces, surmounting traditional obstacles such as mountains, rough terrain or distance. Dubbed “Wi-Fi in the sky” by the USAF, BACN-equipped Global aircraft acts as a universal gateway that can be utilized around the world. The Global family of aircraft is the platform of choice for more than 10 different mission types across the world given their ultimate combination of speed, range and endurance, and the 24/7 worldwide support infrastructure Bombardier has implemented. 

    Bombardier Defense has dedicated in-house engineering and support teams in Wichita, KS, with the ability to incorporate customer-requested modifications and provide comprehensive integration solutions with complete certification capabilities across the full spectrum of civilian, military and hybrid operations. Recognized around the world for its diverse portfolio of proven and versatile specialized aircraft platforms, Bombardier cumulates decades of experience working with hundreds of special mission operators and renowned mission systems integrators.    

    About Bombardier 

    Bombardier (BBD-B.TO) is a global leader in aviation, focused on designing, manufacturing, and servicing the world’s most exceptional business jets. Bombardier’s Challenger and Global aircraft families are renowned for their cutting-edge innovation, cabin design, performance, and reliability. Bombardier has a worldwide fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments, and private individuals. Bombardier aircraft are also trusted around the world in government and military special-mission roles leveraging Bombardier Defense’s proven expertise.   

    Headquartered in Greater Montréal, Québec, Bombardier operates aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company’s robust customer support network services the Learjet, Challenger and Global families of aircraft, and includes facilities in strategic locations in the United States and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the UAE, Singapore, China and Australia.   

    For corporate news and information, including Bombardier’s Environmental, Social and Governance report, as well as the company’s plans to cover all its flight operations with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) utilizing the Book and Claim system visit bombardier.com. Learn more about Bombardier’s industry-leading products and customer service network at businessaircraft.bombardier.com. 

  • Bombardier Defense Delivers Global 6000 Aircraft to Saab’s GlobalEye Program Destined to Join the Swedish Air Force

    • Saab’s GlobalEye is an Airborne Early Warning & Control solution based on Bombardier’s Global family of aircraft that supports military and civil authorities with all-domain situational awareness in real-time.
    • Bombardier Defense provides an array of flexible, trusted and customizable aircraft, that serve as the ultimate platform for the most demanding missions around the world.

    MONTREAL, July 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier Defense recently celebrated the sixth delivery of a Global 6000 aircraft to Swedish defense supplier Saab, ready to be transformed by Saab into their Airborne Early Warning and Control solution known as GlobalEye. This aircraft will join the Swedish Air Force once Saab completes the transformation, further highlighting the illustrious capabilities of both companies in providing forward-looking solutions for nations across the globe.

    Bringing together the best of Canadian and Swedish innovation, Saab’s GlobalEye program integrates their renowned radar, command, control and communication systems into a multi-domain airborne surveillance solution using Bombardier’s class-leading Global 6000 aircraft. The highly efficient and agile Global family of aircraft is valued for its ultimate combination of speed, range, and endurance – making it the platform of choice for government defense needs worldwide.

    “Our jets are internationally recognized as modern, go-to platforms by some of the world’s largest defense contractors, such as Saab,” said Jean-Christopher Gallagher, Executive Vice-President, Aircraft Sales and Bombardier Defense. “The Global aircraft family represents the right-sized solution for multi-mission, surveillance and VIP transport. Time and time again, it has met customers’ expectations for their most demanding mission needs. The Bombardier team is proud to associate its aircraft with strong partners to create the next-generation defense solutions around the world.”

    This latest addition to the Swedish Air Force fleet is yet another example of Bombardier’s long-standing experience in adapting its platforms to specific characteristics of a variety of military services’ individually unique requirements.

    Bombardier Defense has dedicated in-house engineering and support teams with the ability to incorporate customer-requested modifications and provide comprehensive integration solutions with full certification capabilities across the full spectrum of civilian, military and hybrid operations. Recognized around the world for its diverse portfolio of proven and versatile specialized aircraft platforms, Bombardier cumulates decades of experience working with hundreds of special mission operators and renowned mission systems integrators.

    The Canadian company is committed on expanding its highly successful track record delivering multiple specialized business aircraft across the globe and has announced earlier this year a partnership with General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada to deliver the next-generation Multi-Mission and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) aircraft. The proposed state-of-the-art platform will meet the requirements published by the Government of Canada for the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) program, while providing a forward-looking solution to the country’s defense needs.

    About Bombardier

    Bombardier (BBD-B.TO) is a global leader in aviation, focused on designing, manufacturing, and servicing the world’s most exceptional business jets. Bombardier’s Challenger and Global aircraft families are renowned for their cutting-edge innovation, cabin design, performance, and reliability. Bombardier has a worldwide fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments, and private individuals. Bombardier aircraft are also trusted around the world in government and military special-mission roles leveraging Bombardier Defense’s proven expertise.

    Headquartered in Greater Montréal, Québec, Bombardier operates aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company’s robust customer support network services the Learjet, Challenger and Global families of aircraft, and includes facilities in strategic locations in the United States and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the UAE, Singapore, China and Australia.

  • Bombardier Defense Delivers High-performance Global Aircraft to the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Program

    • Aircraft delivery is the first as part of an order from the USAF, announced in June 2021, to modify up to six Global 6000 business jets. The 2021 contract, representing a potential total value of close to $465 million U.S., included an immediate firm order for one Global 6000 aircraft with subsequent additional firm orders announced in April 2022
    • Bombardier Global business jets have become a go-to platform for special missions around the world, thanks to their speed, payload capacity, built-in power redundancy, reliability and endurance
    https://bombardier.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ribbon-Cutting-Pic—no-reg-number.jpg

    WICHITA, Texas, Sept. 15, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier today announced that its Defense division, along with its U.S. subsidiary Learjet Inc., delivered a Global aircraft in special mission configuration to the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program based at Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts.

    “The defense sector is a key pillar of Bombardier’s future as our ultra-reliable and high-performing platforms are best suited to house and operate complex mission equipment,” said Éric Martel, President and CEO of Bombardier. “We are proud that our jets and know-how are being increasingly recognized around the world in this sphere, and this delivery is a milestone, first of its kind since appointing Wichita as the home base for Bombardier Defense.”

    The latest delivery, a Global 6000 aircraft, is the first mission-configured aircraft to be supplied under a contract for up to six modified Global 6000 aircraft, announced in June 2021 and which represents a potential total value of up to $464.8-million USD (the “2021 contract”). Bombardier has already delivered four Global aircraft to the BACN program under previous agreements. Under the 2021 contract, the USAF has confirmed firm orders for three Global 6000 aircraft, with the next two deliveries expected in 2022 and 2023. The USAF has announced its potential to purchase an additional aircraft each year through 2025 under the 2021 contract.

    “The BACN program reduces communication issues associated with incompatible systems, adverse terrain, and distance. BACN increases interoperability which results in forces that execute faster, more reliably, and with less risk to the warfighter. The delivery of 21-9045 is the pivotal first step to advancing the mission this program provides.” – Lt Col Eric Inkenbrandt

    As part of the critical BACN program, Bombardier’s Global aircraft serve as high-altitude communications gateways, relaying or bridging voice and data between air and surface forces and handily surmounting traditional obstacles such as mountains, rough terrain or distance. Dubbed “Wi-Fi in the sky” by the USAF, BACN-equipped Global aircraft are referred to as the E-11A fleet.

    “We are proud to be able to showcase the versatility of our Global business jets and our expertise here in the U.S. to support the type of high-altitude, endurance missions required by the elite BACN program,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President, Bombardier Defense. “Our best-in-class Global aircraft platform offers the complete package–proven reliability, significant payload capacity, ample available power, and the highest degree of stability to support sensitive equipment. This, along with top notch design, manufacturing and certification expertise required to carry out modifications makes Bombardier Global aircraft the optimal choice for conversion to specialized assets.”

    In April 2022, Bombardier designated its Wichita site as its new U.S. Headquarters and launched Bombardier Defense as strategic expansion of its existing Specialized Aircraft division.

    Engineers and technicians at Bombardier Defense in Wichita, Kansas perform the complex engineering and modification work on green Global 6000 aircraft to support the BACN installation, while teams at the Bombardier site in Tucson, Arizona complete the interiors and perform the exterior painting work.

    More than 550 Bombardier Global, Challenger and Learjet business aircraft are currently performing specialized missions worldwide, from securing airspace, borders and infrastructure to head-of-state transport and humanitarian assistance including long-range medical evacuations.

    Forward-looking Statements
    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, including, without limitation, statements relating to future deliveries and orders of aircraft and total realizable contract value. By their nature, forward-looking statements require us to make assumptions and are subject to important known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause our actual results in future periods to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to our note on “Forward-Looking Statements” contained in our latest published quarterly report.

    About Bombardier
    Bombardier is a global leader in aviation, focused on designing, manufacturing, and servicing the world’s most exceptional business jets. Bombardier’s Challenger and Global aircraft families are renowned for their cutting-edge innovation, cabin design, performance, and reliability. Bombardier has a worldwide fleet of approximately 5,000 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments, and private individuals. Bombardier aircraft are also trusted around the world in special-mission roles.

    Headquartered in Montréal, Québec, Bombardier operates aerostructure, assembly and completion facilities in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company’s robust customer support network includes facilities in strategic locations in the United States and Canada, as well as in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the UAE, Singapore, China, and an Australian facility opening in 2022.

  • Bombardier Delivers Fifth Global Business Jet for Saab’s GlobalEye Airborne Surveillance Solution

    • Global aircraft, with their high-altitude performance and long endurance, are the chosen platform for Swedish defense supplier’s GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control solution
    • Bombardier Specialized Aircraft provides an array of flexible, trusted solutions to integrators, governments and agencies around the world

    MONTRÉAL, Aug. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier is proud to announce the recent arrival of a fifth Global business jet at Swedish defense supplier Saab’s Linköping, Sweden, location, ready for conversion into Saab’s Airborne Early Warning and Control solution known as GlobalEye. The aircraft was delivered to Saab from Bombardier’s Toronto manufacturing site and underwent interior completions work at Flying Colours Corp. in Peterborough, Ontario, prior to arriving in Sweden.

    Bombardier Global aircraft arrrives in Sweden.

    “Bombardier Global aircraft are ideally suited for conversion into specialized assets, and we are recognized around the world for our collaborative, flexible approach and unparalleled expertise,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President, Specialized Aircraft, Bombardier. “Our Global 6000 aircraft and increasingly its successor, our Global 6500 aircraft, are known as the go-to platforms for high-altitude, long-endurance missions that require significant payload capability with ample available power, hosted on a reliable platform featuring advanced avionics and systems technology. Bombardier’s signature smooth flight technology provides a comfortable environment for operators and highly stable platform for sensors.”

    “Saab partners with industry leaders, which is why we chose Bombardier’s Global 6000 aircraft as the platform for our advanced Airborne Early Warning and Control solution. We are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with Bombardier and Canadian industry,” says Carl-Johan Bergholm, Senior Vice President and head of Saab business area Surveillance.

    Saab is a leading global defence and security company and has been a trusted partner of the Canadian military for more than 30 years.

    The company’s GlobalEye aircraft completed its maiden flight in early 2018 and three have been delivered from Saab to the customer.

    Bombardier Global business jets are a shining example of Canadian aerospace innovation, with ultra-long range, spacious cabins and class-leading maintenance intervals and reliability. Global aircraft are ideally suited to a range of specialized missions, from securing airspace, borders and infrastructure to head-of-state transport and humanitarian assistance including long-range medical evacuations.

    Fellow Canadian company Flying Colours Corp. supports Saab through the introduction of a practical, functional interior for the mission system operators. 

    “Designing a special mission interior necessitates an intelligent approach, ingenuity and imagination,” said Sean Gillespie, Executive VP for Flying Colours Corp. “Our work with Saab showcases the high levels of technical expertise delivered by our experience, knowledge and the exceptional talent within our team.” 

    Bombardier Specialized Aircraft offers flexible solutions for customers around the world, with conversion options ranging from turnkey packages comprising the complete design, building, testing and certification activity, through to specialized engineering support and technical oversight of customer-specific projects, including modifications to external shapes such as antennae, sensors and radars. Bombardier has designated its Wichita, Kansas, facility as the Centre of Excellence for Specialized Aircraft, with the experience and expertise to carry out complex modifications on site.

    More than 550 Bombardier Global, Challenger and Learjet business aircraft are currently performing specialized missions worldwide.

    About Bombardier
    Bombardier is a global leader in aviation, creating innovative and game-changing planes. Our products and services provide world-class experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

    Headquartered in Montréal, Canada, Bombardier is present in more than 12 countries including its production/engineering sites and its customer support network. The Corporation supports a worldwide fleet of more than 4,900 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments and private individuals.

  • Bombardier Specialized Aircraft Confirms Deal with U.S. Air Force for up to Six More Global Aircraft in Special Mission Configuration

    • Global business jets are the backbone of the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program, and a go-to platform for special missions around the world
    • BACN aircraft, known in the U.S. Air Force as the E-11A, are developed and modified by Bombardier’s highly skilled engineering teams in Wichita, Kansas
    • Contract, which includes one firm aircraft order, underscores Bombardier’s status as a key U.S. aerospace employer

    WICHITA, Kansas, June 02, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier is pleased to confirm an agreement between its Learjet Inc. subsidiary and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program. The Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract provides the USAF with flexible ordering and includes an immediate firm order for one Global 6000 aircraft, with as many as five additional Global 6000 aircraft. The contract, which includes engineering and modification work, represents a potential total value of close to $465 million U.S.

    Bombardier has already delivered four Global aircraft to the U.S. Air Force since 2007 for the BACN program, an airborne relay that extends communication ranges, bridges between radio frequencies and “translates” among incompatible communications systems. BACN aircraft are known in the U.S. Air Force as the E-11A.

    “Bombardier is proud to be chosen once again by the U.S. Air Force to provide our high-performing Global aircraft and our unique expertise in support of the BACN program,” said Michel Ouellette, Executive Vice President, Specialized Aircraft, Programs and Engineering, Bombardier. “Our U.S.-based employees are honored to be lending their skills in support of this elite project.”

    Bombardier teams in the U.S., who continue to provide in-service support and upgrades to the current BACN fleet, are poised to begin work on the next BACN aircraft in the coming days. Engineers and technicians at Bombardier Specialized Aircraft’s Center of Excellence in Wichita, Kansas, will modify the Global platform to support the communications equipment required for the mission, while teams in Tucson will provide the aircraft’s interior and eventually perform the exterior painting work.

    Proud to be a major employer in the U.S. aviation sector, Bombardier works with local colleges and technical schools to help inspire and train the next generation of aerospace professionals.

    Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) had the following statement: “I am pleased to see that the Air Force is following through on its purchase of another E-11A aircraft to support battlefield communications for forward-deployed forces. These planes are engineered and outfitted for the Air Force right here in Wichita, and this purchase is the latest example of Kansans supporting our national security operations back at home.”

    “Supporting the U.S. Air Force’s BACN program while increasing work for Kansas aviation manufacturers is a win for the Air Capital of the World and for our country,” said U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas). “These Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft modified and tested in Wichita give our airmen a competitive advantage in flight and communication.”

    “I’m proud to support the Air Force’s acquisition of additional E-11A BACN aircraft from Bombardier,” said U.S. Representative Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Arizona). “The BACN aircraft fleet connects our warfighters and allies during critical missions and supports highly skilled jobs right here in Tucson at Bombardier’s service center. I look forward to continuing to support the Air Force’s BACN program as a member of the Appropriations Committee.”   

    Bombardier Global aircraft, renowned in the business aviation industry for range, spaciousness and a smooth ride, are a proven, go-to platform for special government missions thanks to their speed, payload capacity, built-in power redundancy, reliability and endurance.

    Bombardier Specialized Aircraft designs, develops and delivers a range of capabilities to operators around the world for a wide variety of missions including surveillance and reconnaissance, medical evacuations and VIP transport. Solutions range from turnkey packages comprising the complete design, building, testing and certification activity, through to specialist engineering support and technical oversight of customer-specific projects. For more information, please visit specializedaircraft.bombardier.com

    About Bombardier
    Bombardier is a global leader in aviation, creating innovative and game-changing planes. Our products and services provide world-class experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

    Headquartered in Montréal, Canada, Bombardier is present in more than 12 countries including its production/engineering sites and its customer support network. The Corporation supports a worldwide fleet of more than 4,900 aircraft in service with a wide variety of multinational corporations, charter and fractional ownership providers, governments and private individuals.

  • Fleet of four modified Bombardier Global business jets reaches 100,000-flight-hour milestone in service with U.S. Air Force

    Press Release from Bombardier Inc.

    September 18, 2019 Montréal Business Aircraft,  Press Release

    • Specially configured Global aircraft are the backbone of the U.S. Air Force Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program
    • All four aircraft were developed and modified by the Bombardier Specialized Aircraft team in Wichita, Kansas
    • Bombardier Global business jets, with their long range, wide cabins and outstanding reliability, are the ideal vehicle for elite special missions
    • Bombardier develops and delivers a range of capabilities to operators around the world for missions including surveillance, medical evacuations and VIP transport

    Bombardier’s Global aircraft platform, renowned in the business aviation industry for range, spaciousness and a smooth ride, has achieved a significant in-service milestone with the U.S. Air Force in special-mission configuration.

    A fleet of four modified Global aircraft has collectively flown an impressive 100,000 hours since entering service. These aircraft are an integral part of the Air Force’s Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) program, an airborne communications relay that extends communication ranges, bridges between radio frequencies and “translates” among incompatible communications systems.

    Over the course of their mission, BACN aircraft have regularly flown over 18 hours a day for months at a time, demonstrating the excellent dispatch reliability of the Global platform.

     “We are extremely proud of the outstanding reliability and performance of the Global aircraft platform as part of this elite assignment,” said Steve Patrick, Vice President, Bombardier Specialized Aircraft. “This 100,000-flight-hour milestone is a testament to the aircrafts’ performance and endurance, clearly demonstrating that the Global platform excels in demanding situations.”

    Starting with one Global Express aircraft in 2007, the BACN fleet today also includes two Global Express XRS variants and one Global 6000 aircraft. The four jets are known in the Air Force as the E-11A.

    Bombardier’s Specialized Aircraft team, based in Wichita, Kansas, carried out the modifications of all four jets, and the team continues to provide in-service support and upgrades to the aircraft.

    Bombardier has a varied portfolio of business jets that can be readily modified for special missions, and its signature smooth ride can minimize crew fatigue and extend the life of mission equipment. Global aircraft are ideal for critical government missions because of their speed, agility, endurance and low operating costs compared to other aircraft in their class.

    The Global 6000 aircraft, with an outstanding range of 6,000 nautical miles*, is recognized for its ability to fly intercontinental ranges without refueling stops, and also for its excellent dispatch reliability. The aircraft also has the most available electrical power in its category for peace of mind on long missions, while the Bombardier Vision flight deck offers a head-up display with enhanced and synthetic vision. 

  • Bombardier Delivers First of Three Global 6000 Business Jets to Join Luftwaffe Fleet

    Provided by Bombardier Business Aircraft/Globe Newswire

    • Long-range Global 6000 aircraft to fulfill German diplomatic and parliamentary transport requirements
    • Delivering best-in-class reliability, leading-edge technology and Bombardier’s signature smooth ride, Global 6000 aircraft are ideal for government missions
      and VIP transport
    • Bombardier to deliver two more Global 6000 aircraft for German government use in 2019

    MONTREAL, Sept. 17, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bombardier has proudly delivered the first of three Global 6000 business jets destined for use by the Luftwaffe, Germany’s air force.

    The Luftwaffe, a longtime Bombardier aircraft operator, will use the Global 6000 business jets to fulfill political and parliamentary transport requirements.

    “Bombardier is incredibly pleased that the Luftwaffe will add the Global 6000 aircraft to its fleet,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Aviation. “Our Specialized Aircraft team has built longstanding relationships with governments around the world who trust in the safety and performance of our products.”

    Bombardier’s Specialized Aircraft division delivers custom solutions to operators, with a diverse portfolio of aircraft that can fly the most demanding and critical missions in various configurations. Bombardier Global aircraft are especially attractive because of their excellent dispatch reliability, speed, agility, endurance and optimized operating costs.

    Powered by Rolls-Royce BR710 engines, developed and manufactured by Rolls-Royce Deutschland in Dahlewitz, Germany, the Global 6000 aircraft has enough range for non-stop flights between continents, which is ideal for political and parliamentary transport requirements. The Global 6000 aircraft also delivers a smooth ride that reduces the fatigue of frequent travel for both passengers and crew, while its advanced Bombardier Vision flight deck features a head-up display with both Enhanced and Synthetic Vision for a better pilot experience.

    The delivery of the Global 6000 aircraft deepens Bombardier’s substantial ties to Germany, where it is the leading provider of business jets. Bombardier Transportation, a global rail industry leader, is headquartered in Berlin.

  • Innotech Aviation Receives US FAA Supplemental Type Certification for Jetwave KA-Band Connectivity Installs

    Provided by Innotech-Execaire Aviation Group/CNW

    MONTREAL, Aug. 30, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ – Innotech-Execaire Aviation Group (“IEAG”) announced today that it has received full US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval of its Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the installation of Honeywell JetWaveTM connectivity solution on US FAA registered Bombardier BD-700-1A10 Global aircraft – specifically the Bombardier Global Express, Global XRS and Global 6000 variants.

    The US FAA approval provided to Innotech Aviation now supplements existing Transport Canada STC approval of both the system and radome installations on Bombardier Global aircraft and further extends to allow for radome installations on the BD-700-1A11 Global  5000 aircraft platform as well. Follow-on EASA approvals of the installations are expected in the coming months.

    JetWave is Honeywell’s cabin communications system offered in partnership with Inmarsat, utilizing the Ka-band Global aircraft satellite network. The Honeywell JetWave is a next generation system offering high speed bandwidth and airborne connectivity via JetConneX. JetWave provides an aircraft solution which most closely matches the on-ground-in-the-office user experience expected by clients – together with the ability to further support the growth of connectivity demands well into the future.

    As part the Innotech-Execaire Aviation Group, Innotech has long been known for being a premier provider of aircraft maintenance, inspection, installation and refurbishment services from its facilities located in Montreal. “We are excited about this important milestone which builds on  our proud tradition of supporting aircraft owners and operators looking for airborne connectivity solutions for their Global business jets,” said Frank Ercolanese, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Innotech-Execaire Aviation Group. “We look forward to fully leveraging our 40+ year Channel partner relationship with Honeywell together with our extensive maintenance, installation and refurbishment expertise to the benefit of our clients,” he added.