Cessna is here in Paris exhibiting a newly configured Grand Caravan EX demonstrator that aims at promoting the aircraft’s special mission applications. These include aerial survey, air ambulance, paratrooper, amphibious operations, surveillance and training.
Cessna even suggests customers might choose a weaponized variant, as the turboprop single can be manufactured with structural provisions for up to four hard points under the wings. Orbital ATK, for example, offers the AC-208 Combat Caravan with Hellfire missiles.
“Having a fully equipped special missions Grand Caravan EX demonstrator in the market allows our customers to experience firsthand the extensive range of capabilities available on this aircraft,” said Dan Keady, vice president of special missions. The aircraft on display thus features a surveillance console, a medical stretcher, new lightweight seats and a stowable utility seat.
Powered by the 867-shp Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-140 engine, the Grand Caravan EX boasts a 38-percent improvement over the rate of climb of the Grand Caravan, a 350-foot reduction in takeoff roll and a 10 to 12-knot cruise speed improvement on average. It can therefore takeoff in 1,400 feet and climb at 1,275 feet per minute, reaching cruise speeds of 185 knots and traveling distances of up to 904 nm.
The Caravan sports a Garmin G1000 avionics suite with optional synthetic vision technology. It is based on two primary flight displays and a center multifunction display. Pilots have the ability to upload IFR flight plans on the G1000 to exactly match the intended route. Magenta rectangular pathways provide a visual window to help pilots follow the intended flight route.
