Fokker Services Group converts a Gulfstream G550 into advanced surveillance aircraft

Fokker Services Group received EASA Supplement Type Certificate related to a special mission project conducted in partnership with Gulfstream Aerospace and their 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.

This conversion falls within the scope of Fokker’s Aircraft Completion & Conversion business unit, synonymous with excellence, because of its proven skills and decade long track record. As such, the converted aircraft will support the Japanese coastal authority in various surveillance duties, including responsibilities such as environmental risk monitoring and search & rescue missions for missing people and vessels.

Gulfstream delivered the G550 to Fokker from their worldwide headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, USA. The aircraft interior and exterior has been modified by the program partners and completed by Fokker with the latest state of the art surveillance equipment for conducting long-distance search & rescue missions, a task that aligns exceptionally 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 GV’s, which are still in service today.

Robert Koolen, Sales Director Aircraft Completion and Conversions at Fokker Services Group, commented: “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 craftmanship needed in all phases and facets of such a conversion. Thanks to our broad set of capabilities and competencies, such as our design organization 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.”

Roland van Dijk, CEO of Fokker Services Group, stated: “Fokker takes pride in having been selected by Gulfstream and Marubeni again for this complex and prestigious project. Being the integrator in such 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 a variety of services we provide.” 

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