Cessna Grand Caravans to Bolster Security Efforts in the Horn of Africa: Textron Aviation’s Strategic Acquisition
Textron Aviation today revealed the awarding of a contract by the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Redstone Arsenal, AL, for two Cessna Grand Caravan EX turboprop aircraft. These aircraft will be owned and operated by the Djiboutian Air Force (DAF). This procurement marks the third delivery order under a recently initiated indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract that permits up to $100 million U.S. dollars for the procurement of Textron Aviation aircraft over a five-year time frame.
The Cessna Grand Caravan EX is engineered and produced by Textron Aviation Inc., a subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT).
“The two specialized Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft will be outfitted for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance to secure the sovereignty of Djibouti’s borders,” stated Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales for Textron Aviation. “This multiyear agreement enables the U.S. Army Security Assistance Command to swiftly acquire Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) aircraft and modifications from Textron Aviation for our Foreign Military Sale allies and partner nations. We take pride in contributing to the enhancement of U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives by supplying our solutions under the IDIQ and eagerly anticipate further collaboration with the U.S. Army.”
This order follows the recent issuance of delivery orders for three Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft, two of which are intended for the Peruvian Naval Aviation Force (Fuerza de Aviación Naval) and one for the Ecuadorian Naval Aviation (Aviación Naval Ecuatoriana). With the addition of two Cessna Grand Caravan EX for the Djiboutian Air Force, a total of five aircraft have been ordered under the IDIQ contract.
About the Cessna Grand Caravan EX
The Cessna Caravan platform has witnessed more than 3,000 aircraft delivered, certified in 100 countries with nearly 24 million flight hours accumulated globally since the aircraft’s debut. Caravans serve diverse roles, including flight training, recreation, commuter transport, VIP conveyance, cargo services, and humanitarian missions. The Grand Caravan EX aircraft is celebrated for its reliable and efficient performance among regional airlines, charter operators, cargo services, and special mission operators worldwide. The aircraft boasts an impressive output of 867 horsepower and a climb rate of 1,275 feet per minute.
Endless Special Missions Possibilities
When governmental, military, and commercial clients seek aerial solutions for critical missions, they turn to Textron Aviation. The company’s aviation solutions deliver the high performance and flight characteristics essential for addressing the distinctive challenges of special missions operations. With unmatched quality, adaptability, and low operating expenses, Textron Aviation products are preferred for air ambulance, ISR, utility transport, aerial surveying, flight inspection, training, and a variety of other special operations.
