In an increasingly complex security environment all across Africa and the Middle East, the ability to collect, verify and share information quickly can make the difference between a routine operation and a successful mission. The brand-new Do228 NXT special mission aircraft combines proven flight performance with advanced intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
The Do228 series is already well known for its ability to transport passengers and cargo efficiently, which has been demonstrated in nearly 20 different African countries. Its true strength, however, lies in its flexibility. Offering four 14-inch NATO-standard wing hardpoints, the aircraft can be equipped with cutting-edge sensors and adapt rapidly to changing operational requirements. Larger systems can be integrated through additional pods or airframe modifications.
In its “Central Intelligence”- Configuration, the Do228 NXT combines traditional imagery intelligence (IMINT) with signals intelligence capabilities, including SIGINT, COMINT and ELINT. Additional antennas on the fuselage, together with specialized receivers and transmitters inside the aircraft, enable the platform to detect, locate and analyze signals from the ground.
Once a signal from the ground is detected, the direction and location of the emitted signals can be determined. This position is then displayed on a tactical map and the IMINT sensor can be cross slewed to verify the targets optically. Furthermore, the signal gets saved so it can be analyzed later on the ground.
This configuration can be used for border patrol, search and rescue and signal data collection to update the Common Operating Picture (COP) before planning a ground mission. Other flight characteristics, such as various speeds and operating altitudes and the ability to take off and land on short or unpaved runways – which are very common in Africa and the Middle East.
For example, a routine border patrol flight gets tasked into a search and rescue of a lost tourist in the desert. The tourist’s last position and mobile phone number are known. The Do228 NXT flies into the target area and searches for the mobile phone, even when there is no cellular coverage. Once the tourist is located the camera is used to optically verify his medical condition, so that the right search and rescue units can be dispatched and GPS coordinates can be shared with mission command
This underlines the strength of the Do228 NXT: A proven aircraft that has evolved into a versatile and well-equipped platform for reconnaissance, special missions as well as data collection and transmission, offering operators across Africa and the Middle East more operational potential than almost any other manned aircraft in its size class.
Please visit: www.do228nxt.com
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