Bombardier said the Global 6500 will bring new capabilities to Australia’s aerial surveillance programme. The company said the aircraft is suited to operations requiring long range, endurance, speed and reliability.
“The Global 6500 aircraft brings a new level of capability for maritime surveillance, with exceptional range, speed, endurance and reliability,” said Michael Anckner, Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Bombardier Defense.
“Our teams are proud that this game-changing aircraft is the trusted choice to support the Australian Border Force’s aerial surveillance program,” Anckner said.
The programme will introduce the Global platform in Australia in a special mission configuration. Bombardier said the aircraft has already supported several successful special mission programmes worldwide.
Bombardier Learjet and Challenger aircraft already perform search-and-rescue and medical evacuation missions in Australia. The company said the Global 6500 is a logical choice for demanding specialised missions around the world.
Bombardier has more than 75 business jets in Australia across the Learjet, Challenger and Global families. The company has expanded its presence in the country in recent years to support its regional fleet and special mission customers.
In 2022, Bombardier opened its Melbourne Service Centre at Essendon Fields Airport in Melbourne. In March 2025, it also announced a new Line Maintenance Station in Perth.
Bombardier Defense opened its first international office in Adelaide in May 2024. The office was established to provide a higher level of service to special mission customers in the Australian market.
The Global 6500 offers configurations for demanding specialised missions. Bombardier said governments, militaries and operators select the aircraft for its combination of performance, reliability and flexibility, as well as its available outer-mould line configurations.
Bombardier Defense combines the company’s Challenger and Global aircraft with engineering and maintenance expertise to create custom solutions. It works with governments, militaries and mission system providers on long-term partnerships.
The company also uses Bombardier’s worldwide support network to provide maintenance services and tailored support for government and military customers. Bombardier aircraft perform missions including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, airborne early warning and control, border and maritime patrol, multi-role operations, head-of-state transport, medical evacuation and urgent humanitarian assistance.
