Canadian firm Bombardier Defense has unveiled the Swiss Air Force’s first Global 7500 long-range multimission aircraft.
The launch came after the plane’s delivery in December 2024 as part of Bern’s effort to expand its airborne fleet for special military and federal transport missions, emergency evacuations, and other humanitarian deployments.
The Swiss defense procurement agency (Armasuisse) revealed in 2023 its intent to procure the capability to replace the armed forces’ Cessna Citation Excel 560XLs, which have been operational since 2002.
MANPAD Integration, Operational Capability This Year
The Global 7500 will be installed with a Man-Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS) early this year to conform to the Swiss defense agency’s aircraft self-protection requirements.
MANPADS is commonly offered as a shoulder-launched surface-to-air system that uses short-range guided missiles to neutralize threats, especially low-altitude enemy aircraft.
Concurrently, training for the plane’s future aircrew and ground support team will run in preparation for its full operational capability before the year’s end.
The Global 7500 will be stationed at the Payerne Air Base following its induction. After two years, it will be transferred to the Bern-Belp airport.
“The Global 7500 aircraft is a proven and versatile platform that has earned speed records, stood out as the highest performing in its class and has quickly become a customer favorite,” Bombardier Defense Sales VP Stephane Leroy stated.
“Armasuisse’s aircraft represents a significant milestone for Bombardier Defense, as it is the first Global 7500 configured for head-of-state multi-mission needs.”
“We are proud to have the trust of Armasuisse, and to support them with critical transportation and emergency evacuation missions.”
The Global 7500 Aircraft
Bombardier’s Global 7500 measures 111 feet (34 meters) long and has a wingspan of 104 feet (32 feet).
It is powered by two General Electric Passport engines for speeds up to Mach 0.925 (691 miles/1,111 kilometers per hour), a range of 7,700 nautical miles (8,861 miles/14,260 kilometers), and altitudes up to 51,000 feet (15,544 meters).
The aircraft can carry up to 19 passengers, has a fuel capacity of 51,503 pounds (23,361 kilograms), and a payload capacity of 5,800 pounds (2,631 kilograms).
