By Gus G. Manion, The Chicago Times
March 3, 2023
WICHITA, KS – Textron Aviation announced Friday that it has delivered a special mission Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft to the Belize Ministry of National Defense and Border Security under a Foreign Military Sale contract executed by the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama.
“The Grand Caravan EX delivered to the Belize Ministry of National Defense and Border Security will be used as a multi-mission platform for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC), Search and Rescue (SAR), Air Mobility, Light Air Drop and other operations as necessary. This is the first Caravan EX in the service of the Belize Ministry of National Defense and Border Security.” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales.
According to Textron, the delivered Grand Caravan EX is fitted with an Electro-Optical/Infra-Red (EO/IR) sensor, operator mission console, tactical radios and data link. In addition, Textron Aviation will provide pilot, mission operator, and maintenance training.
Textron’s Cessna Caravan platform has seen some 3,000 aircraft delivered in 100 countries with nearly 24 million flight hours amassed worldwide since the aircraft was introduced in the 1980s. Caravans are designed for flight training, recreation, commuter airlines, VIP transport, cargo carriers, and humanitarian missions. The Grand Caravan EX aircraft is known for its dependability and efficient performance by regional airlines, charter operators, cargo carriers and special mission operators worldwide.
The Chicago Times 