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Bombardier Defense has secured a contract to deliver two Challenger 650 business jets for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in Australia.
The planes, purchased by Queensland-based customized operating lease provider Principle Finance, will be adopted by an undisclosed user in the country.
Bombardier noted that the systems’ selection is supported by its “outstanding short-field performance and proven reliability in the mid-sized jet category.”
The platforms also offer performance “comparable” to bigger maritime patrol aircraft and enhanced specifications against legacy airborne ISR assets.
Principle Finance is scheduled to receive both Challenger 650 aircraft in 2026.
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“We are excited to integrate the Bombardier Challenger 650 into our fleet, leveraging its exceptional performance and reliability, which will play a crucial role in our future operations,” Principle Finance Managing Director Harrison Langrell stated.
“This platform allows us to enhance our surveillance reach and effectiveness, ensuring we stay ahead in the rapidly evolving defense landscape.”
Business in Australia
Bombardier’s contract follows the firm’s establishment of a new office in Adelaide to bring aerospace solutions closer to defense customers in Australia and the larger Asia-Pacific.
In May, the company launched a line maintenance station in Perth to further expand its assistance capabilities in the region.
During the Perth center’s opening, Bombardier revealed it would add another sustainment hub in Sydney later this year.
Bombardier’s Challenger 650
The Challenger 650 measures 21 meters (69 feet) and has a wingspan of 20 meters (66 feet).
It can accommodate up to 12 passengers and carry up to 2,200 kilograms (4,850 pounds) of payload.
The aircraft is powered by GE CF34-3B MTO engines for an operating altitude of 12,400 meters (40,682 feet), a range of 7,400 kilometers (4,598 miles), and a speed of Mach 0.8 (988 kilometers/614 miles per hour).