Textron Aviation has announced that it has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Army Contracting Command based in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. As per the contract, two Cessna Grand Caravan EX turboprop aircraft will be owned and operated by the Djiboutian Air Force (DAF). This is the third delivery order under an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract recently established, which allows for up to $100 million in the acquisition of Textron Aviation aircraft over five years.
“The two special missions Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft will be Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance equipped to ensure the border sovereignty of the country of Djibouti,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, of Special Mission Sales for Textron Aviation. “This multiyear contract allows the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command to rapidly procure Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) aircraft and modifications from Textron Aviation for our Foreign Military Sale allies and partner nations. We are honored to assist in advancing U.S. national security and foreign policy interests by providing our solutions under the IDIQ and we look forward to further cooperation with the U.S. Army.”
Recently, three Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft have been ordered for delivery. Two of these aircraft are intended for the Peruvian Naval Aviation Force (Fuerza de Aviación Naval), while the third one is for the Ecuadorian Naval Aviation (Aviación Naval Ecuatoriana). Additionally, two Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft have been ordered for the Djiboutian Air Force. In total, five aircraft have been ordered under the IDIQ contract.
The Cessna Caravan is a versatile aircraft certified in 100 countries. It has flown for nearly 24 million hours worldwide since its introduction. With over 3,000 units delivered, it can perform a variety of functions, such as flight training, transportation, cargo, and humanitarian missions. The Grand Caravan EX, in particular, is highly regarded by regional airlines, charter operators, cargo carriers, and special missions operators for its reliable and efficient performance. The aircraft produces an impressive output of 867 horsepower and can climb at a rate of 1,275 feet per minute.
Textron Aviation is the go-to choice for government, military, and commercial customers seeking airborne solutions for critical missions. Their aviation solutions offer high performance and flight characteristics that are essential for handling the unique challenges of special mission operations. Textron Aviation products are renowned for their unparalleled quality, versatility, and low operating costs, making them the ideal choice for air ambulance, ISR, utility transport, aerial survey, flight inspection, training, and a range of other special operations.
