European maintenance and modification center Sabena technics delivered a Bombardier Global 7500 to an undisclosed VVIP customer following a complete modification system to add self-defense capabilities.

The project called for France-based Sabena to develop the first EASA supplemental type certificate for installation of the Leonardo Miysis directed infrared countermeasure system on an ultra-long-range business jet. The manufacture and integration of mechanical and electrical kits were also part of the project.

Sabena has performed self-protection system installations on a variety of VVIP aircraft including Airbus and Boeing jets and Lockheed C-130s. “This is a great new opportunity to demonstrate the strong know-how we have acquired on aircraft protection system integration,” said Sabena senior v-p of sales and business development Daniel Soltani. “Our growing portfolio of projects indicates our ability to successfully design, manufacture, install and certify any self-defense system on any aircraft type with any OEM.”