Fokker Services Group has received the EASA supplemental type certificate related to a special mission project conducted in partnership with Gulfstream and its Japanese international sales representative Marubeni Aerospace Corporation, both acting on behalf of the Japan Coast Guard.

Applicable STC completion involves the full conversion of a Gulfstream G550 aircraft into a maritime surveillance aircraft. The converted aircraft will support the Japanese coastal authority in various surveillance duties, including responsibilities such as environmental risk monitoring and search and rescue missions.

Gulfstream delivered the G550 to Fokker from its headquarters in Savannah, Georgia. The aircraft interior and exterior has been modified by the programme partners and completed by Fokker with the latest surveillance equipment for conducting long-distance SAR missions, a task that aligns well with the capabilities of this aircraft type. Gulfstream's relationship with Fokker and the Japan Coast Guard spans more than two decades, beginning with the delivery of modified Gulfstream GVs that are still in service today.

Robert Koolen, sales director aircraft completion and conversions, says: "Integrating the set of onboard detection equipment and sensors required a complex series of modifications. Our century-long history has brought a lot of knowledge and craftsmanship needed in all phases and facets of such a conversion. Thanks to our broad set of capabilities and competencies such as our design organisation certifications, cabin interior and wiring interconnections manufacturing skills and our experienced production team, we were well prepared for the job. It's great to have our extensive capabilities leading to an EASA approved STC for a special mission G550."

"Fokker takes pride in having been selected by Gulfstream and Marubeni again for this complex and prestigious project. Being the integrator in such a complex project can be a challenge and requires certain skills to make it a success. Aligning your own engineering, structural modifications, installations, test-phase and certification process with the many different parties involved sometimes feels like a balancing act. Fokker is extremely pleased to contribute to the commendable mission of the Japan Coast Guard through the variety of services we provide," adds Roland van Dijk, Fokker CEO.

With the aircraft converted and applicable EASA STC being released the aircraft will continue its test programme.