Israel Aerospace Industries is in advanced negotiations with Bombardier over the establishment of a joint venture that could offer maritime patrol aircraft based on the Canadian manufacturer's Dash 8 family of regional aircraft.
IAI's Elta Systems subsidiary has identified the Dash 8 as an ideal platform for the maritime patrol mission, because of the twin turboprop's ability to fly at low altitude and at relatively low speeds. The Israeli company proposes using the aircraft to carry a variety of its maritime patrol sensors. These have already been integrated with several manned aircraft and unmanned air vehicles for the Israeli armed forces and export customers, some of which also employ its equipment in the anti-submarine warfare mission.
 |
|---|
Baruch Reshef, deputy director of Elta's sales division, says Bombardier is fully co-operating with an effort to jointly offer the new maritime patrol capability. "They agree with us that the demand for such aircraft is growing, and that our joint effort will result in a very good system," he says. "We hope to conclude our discussions with Bombardier soon and complete the design."
Bombardier declines to comment on the reported discussions with IAI, but notes: "We are constantly looking to improve our products and, through our Specialised Aircraft Solutions unit, we are looking to adapt them to the needs of specific customers. We are in discussion with several suppliers and potential suppliers around the world regarding many different opportunities."
Source: Flight International
