The RAPCON-X, based on the Bombardier Global 6500 jet, is designed to support a wide range of intelligence missions. “Today is a monumental day for SNC, the dedicated team at our Hagerstown campus and our valued customers,” said Tim Owings, executive vice president of SNC’s MST business area. “SNC’s pivot to creating a rapidly configurable jet ISR capability is a ground-breaking development that will revolutionise how our customers plan and execute ISR missions.”
RAPCON-X completed its first flight yesterday! This milestone is a significant step forward for the A-ISR platform, which has been selected for the U.S. Army’s Theater Level High Altitude Expeditionary Next Airborne ISR (ATHENA) project. #ICYMI #TeamSNC https://t.co/lV6v6kT5Rs pic.twitter.com/OMrHM0AQhh
— Sierra Nevada Corporation (@SierraNevCorp) November 22, 2024
Developed using model-based systems engineering (MBSE), the RAPCON-X enables rapid integration of new technologies and systems. This innovative approach allows for a highly adaptable mission interior, reducing the need for costly aircraft redesigns. SNC’s scalable design also extends to other aircraft models, including the Bombardier Challenger 650 and King Air 350ER, broadening its application across various mission profiles.
The aircraft incorporates cutting-edge technology to enhance ISR operations, including SNC TRAX software, which ensures connectivity with all net-enabled battlefield platforms. Its baseline configuration supports signals intelligence, electro-optical reconnaissance, and ground-moving target identification, making it a versatile tool for high-altitude and long-endurance missions.
“SNC’s RAPCON-X team worked tirelessly to create an open architecture, aerial ISR solution that gives the warfighter the advantage required to win the near-peer fight,” said Josh Walsh, vice president of programs for Mission Solution and Operations. “This flight is proof of SNC’s readiness to support these critical customer missions.”
The RAPCON-X is part of SNC’s contractor-owned-contractor-operated (COCO) approach under the ATHENA programme. This contract includes comprehensive ISR services such as aircraft provision, pilot support, and maintenance operations, ensuring a complete solution for the U.S. Army’s needs.
Tim Harper, SNC’s vice president of business development, emphasised the significance of the design approach. “Our clear commitment to open architecture maximises both capability and schedules. RAPCON-X is a quick reaction capability built to program-of-record standards utilising modular hardware and software. This allows SNC to deliver the right solution to our customers every time.”
SNC collaborated with aerospace and defence leaders, including Bombardier, ThinKom Solutions, Inc., and Leonardo USA, to develop the RAPCON-X. The company will continue its work on the aircraft at its integration facilities in Hagerstown, ensuring ongoing innovation to meet evolving threats.
