Defense technology provider Bird Aerosystems has been granted an Israeli CAA supplemental type certificate (STC) for modifications to the Beechcraft King Air 350C. This expands the aircraft’s capability for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and special missions.
According to Bird, the certification allows integration of a broad range of ISR payloads such as EO/IR sensors, multimode radars, and NATO-standard 30-inch pylons, turning the aircraft into an adaptable, multirole platform. The STC complements Bird’s airborne surveillance, intelligence and observation system, which integrates multiple sensors and communications to deliver real-time intelligence.
The new configuration includes center fuselage hard points rated for payloads up to 860 pounds and forward fuselage hard points supporting 220 pounds. Additional provisions include four GNSS antennas, datalink antenna, and cabin wiring for intercom and crossover panels to enable power and data integration between sensors and operator workstations.
“By providing our customers with a flexible, multirole platform that can be rapidly adapted for ISR and special missions, we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for every mission and every challenge,” said Bird Aerosystems v-p of solutions Tal Haloutz.
In June, the company secured a contract to install its airborne missile protection system (AMPS) on an undisclosed head-of-state Boeing BBJ under an EASA STC. The AMPS package is designed to protect aircraft from ground-to-air missile or rocket attacks.