Canada’s Field Aviation has amassed considerable expertise in the special-mission aircraft design and modification sector. Two examples of its work are on display here at Farnborough (Hall 4 Stand C17-C19), in the form of the Boeing MSA (maritime surveillance aircraft) and a modified nose section for the Viking Twin Otter MRSA.

When Boeing launched the MSA, which is based on the Bombardier Challenger 604 airframe, as a lower-cost alternative to the Boeing P-8 Poseidon, Field Aviation was contracted to undertake the modification.

The aircraft displayed here has been outfitted to carry a range of sensors, including search radar, retractable EO/IR turret and electronic intelligence systems, with workstations in the cabin. Modification of the Challenger to civil certification standards was undertaken at Toronto’s Pearson International airport, from where Field has also conducted extensive flight tests.

Field Aviation also designed and built a nose section for the Viking Twin Otter Guardian 400, a multi-role surveillance aircraft. A full-scale model of the nose is on display at Viking’s outdoor exhibit (OE26), and features a 360-degree search radar and a retractable EO/IR turret. Also displayed is the mission management system and workstation, which is located in the aircraft’s cabin.