Bombardier Defense and SNC have signed a 10-year agreement covering two Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft equipped with SNC’s RAPCON-X technology.
The deal includes Bombardier smart services defense support, providing logistics, spare parts, shipping, technical publications, and 24/7 customer assistance. The agreement is structured to reduce operating costs for aircraft used across the defense sector, strengthening collaboration between the two companies.
Under the agreement, Bombardier will cover predetermined costs for SNC, which operates the two COCO (contractor-owned, contractor-operated) aircraft for a U.S. military customer.
“Bombardier Defense offers much more than top-performing aircraft,”, said Guillaume Landrivon, vice president, support & services, Bombardier Defense. “Our tailored service packages allow for predictable and transparent operating costs. This is especially useful for aircraft flying high-utilization missions for government customers.”
Josh Walsh, vice president of programs at SNC said: “Our collaboration with Bombardier Defense is exceptional. With the signing of this agreement, we are committed to providing the predictability, transparency and reliability our customers depend on to remain prepared at all times. This agreement not only allows us to mitigate risk but also adds significant value for our customers and the U.S. taxpayer.”
Designed using model-based systems engineering (MBSE), Tim Harper, SNC vice president of business development, explained, “RAPCON-X is a rapidly configurable aircraft solution that we can swiftly adapt to specific missions by switching out on-board equipment to match tactical needs. Its baseline configuration allows the aircraft to collect and process SIGINT, EO reconnaissance and ground moving-target signatures. It also includes SNC TRAX software that connects RAPCON-X with all net-enabled platforms across the battlefield.”
SNC’s approach also allows to apply its RAPCON-X design to other Bombardier aircrafts, including the Challenger 650.
The Bombardier smart services defense program offers a cost-per-flight-hour model that combines multiple services under one plan. The predetermined-rate structure helps operators manage expenses and avoid unexpected maintenance costs while benefiting from Bombardier’s OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) expertise and technical support.
Source: Bombardier Defense
About Bombardier Defense
Bombardier Defense, a division of Bombardier Inc., delivers aircrafts and solutions for government, military, and special operations. The division provides design, testing, certification, and support for missions, including airborne surveillance, maritime patrol, border security, and humanitarian response. Established in 2022 with its Wichita, KN site designated for defense work, Bombardier Defense builds on the company’s history in aircraft engineering and operations.
About SNC
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) is a privately held aerospace and defense company that develops systems for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, aircraft modification, cybersecurity, and mission technology across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. Founded in 1963, the company has more than 60 years of experience supporting defense and national security programs. SNC operates in sectors such as aerospace, national security, electronics, and systems integration. Headquartered in Sparks, Nevada, the company has more than 40 locations worldwide.