The order follows the earlier selection of the Global 6500 for South Korea’s Airborne Early Warning & Control programme. That separate programme covers four aircraft, with Bombardier Defense, L3Harris Technologies and IAI among the main members of the international consortium responsible for delivering the capability.
“The Global 6500 aircraft is in demand around the world because of its performance and versatility, and we’re extremely proud that it was chosen for two very advanced, yet different defense missions in South Korea,” said Michael Anckner, Vice-President, Worldwide Sales, Bombardier Defense. “This aircraft is trusted because of its proven military track record, yet it remains highly adaptable as defense needs evolve.”
The two additional Global 6500 aircraft will perform a Stand Off Jammer mission. Bombardier Defense said the role allows enemy electromagnetic signals to be disrupted from a safe distance.
For the electronic warfare aircraft, the main work will involve Korean Air and LIG Nex1. LIG Nex1 will act as the supplier and integrator of the mission equipment.
The aircraft are expected to provide jamming capabilities against radar stations and communications networks. Their mission systems are also intended to help break through a potential adversary’s defences while keeping the aircraft at a safe distance from the threat.
Bombardier Defense said the Global 6500 is well suited to special mission work because of its range, altitude performance and adaptability. The aircraft can fly at high altitude, above air corridors used by commercial airlines, and offers high cruising speed and flight endurance of more than 10 hours.
The company said the aircraft is also used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, multi-role missions, medical evacuation and head-of-state transport. Its structure can be adapted for the outer-mould-line changes needed to integrate advanced mission systems and equipment.
The Global 6000/6500 family has already become an important base for military aircraft conversions, including Saab’s GlobalEye system. Bombardier Defense said the Global 6500 is increasingly being selected by countries modernising their airborne defence capabilities.
The latest purchase strengthens Bombardier Defense’s position in South Korea’s special mission aircraft market. It also gives Seoul a common high-performance business jet platform for two different missions: airborne early warning and control, and electronic warfare.
