Gulfstream ‘adaptability’ benefiting special missions

Recent years have witnessed a change in pace for special mission aircraft (SMA) involved in front-line defence operations. While commercial aircraft have long been employed to carry out ISR tasks, preference among many governments and militaries is to veer away from the conventional large jet airliners or small prop-planes. Instead, a golden mean is being found in the business jet. 

Versatile in its ability to carry a multisensor suite and advanced enough to offer significant improvements on altitude, speed and endurance, the bizjet is proving an increasingly tempting investment. 

Among the leading providers in this market is Gulfstream Aerospace, a company that first began its partnership with U.S. government and military branches in 1967. Its aircraft were used to train a range of specialists from Apollo astronauts to hurricane chasers.

Today, nearly 200 Gulfstream aircraft operate across 37 countries in support of special missions, including roles as head-of-state transports, airborne early-warning systems, and in support of international atmospheric data – something that had never been obtainable before a modified Gulfstream G550 pioneered the capability.

Defence IQ had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Troy Miller, Regional Vice President for Military and Special Mission Sales, and Mr. Alex Kolar, Regional Vice President for International Government Sales, to find out exactly why end-users are lining up to find out how Gulfstream’s SMA portfolio can meet their 21st century needs...