A British designed and manufactured aircraft is making a show debut at Farnborough - and its performance in the daily flying display is drawing attention from international visitors.
The aircraft is the Speedtwin Comet, described as an "all-terrain" twin because of its short field performance and rugged capabilities.
According to Malcolm Ducker, the aircraft's display pilot - who on the ground doubles as the manufacturer's managing director - the opportunity to demonstrate the aircraft's handling and performance to the huge international audience at the Farnborough show was too good to miss.
"The Speedtwin is ideal for countries and international corporations who require efficient and reliable equipment and its outstanding manoeuvrability and performance makes it the obvious choice for discerning, budget conscious organisations," Ducker said.
With a capability to fit weapons or surveillance equipment, the Speedtwin can operate as a light-combat aircraft, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft or as a multi-engined trainer. "We can also be seen as a cost-effective competitor to UAVs," Ducker said.
In its pre-production form, Speedtwin needs a take-off roll of just 200m (656ft). Ducker believes that by the time it is in production, it will be closer to 100m.
As the aircraft does not require a prepared runway surface, it has obvious tactical advantages. "It can be based right next to oil or other industrial installations and provide immediate and constant economic surveillance," Ducker said.
Ducker is a former Royal Air Force fighter pilot and was also training captain with Cathay Pacific before buying the Speedtwin Development company.
Ducker is hoping the exposure at the show could attract the interest of investors. Although the aircraft has been designed and its prototype built in the UK, Ducker says the production could be carried out overseas if the right investor comes along.
The investment could be in the region of $10 million but for an aircraft that is claimed to be the only twin certified for intentional spinning and with handling capabilities that will make it one of the safest aircraft in the market, Ducker believes it could be a sound investment.
The aircraft can be seen in the static park (aircraft 9).
Source: Flight Daily News
