The Fokker Services Group STC completion involves converting a Gulfstream G550 aircraft into a maritime surveillance jet for the Japanese coastal authority in various surveillance duties and search and rescue missions.
Fokker Services Group has received the EASA Supplement Type Certificate (STC) for a special mission project conducted in collaboration with Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. and Marubeni Aerospace Corporation on behalf of the Japan Coast Guard. The STC completion involves converting a Gulfstream G550 aircraft into a maritime surveillance aircraft to support the Japanese coastal authority in various surveillance duties, including environmental risk monitoring and search and rescue missions.
Robert Koolen, Sales Director Aircraft Completion and Conversions, Fokker Services Group said, “Integrating the set of onboard detection equipment and sensors required a complex series of modifications. Our century-long history has brought a lot of knowledge and craftmanship needed in all phases and facets of such a conversion. Thanks to our broad set of capabilities and competencies, such as our design organization certifications, cabin interior and wiring interconnections manufacturing skills and our experienced production team, we were well prepared for the job. It’s great to have our extensive capabilities leading to an EASA approved STC for a Special Mission G550.”
Gulfstream delivered the G550 to Fokker from their headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, USA. The aircraft’s interior and exterior were modified, and it was equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance equipment for conducting long-distance search and rescue missions. Fokker, known for its excellence in aircraft completions and conversions, played a crucial role in integrating the required onboard detection equipment and sensors, ensuring the successful completion of this complex project.
“Fokker takes pride in having been selected by Gulfstream and Marubeni again for this complex and prestigious project. Being the integrator in such complex project can be a challenge and requires certain skills to make it a success. Aligning your own engineering, structural modifications, installations, test-phase and certification process with the many different parties involved sometimes feels like a balancing act. Fokker is extremely pleased to contribute to the commendable mission of the Japan Coast Guard through a variety of services we provide.”, said Roland van Dijk, CEO, Fokker Services Group.
Also Read- Navigating the Skies with A Year-End Overview of Challenges and Trends in Aviation
With the EASA STC released, the converted aircraft will continue its test program. Fokker Services Group, as an independent aerospace service company, offers comprehensive solutions globally, covering modifications and engineering services, component and material services, airframe services, and aircraft completion and conversion services for various markets, including commercial, VIP, cargo, and defense.
