Cessna SkyCourier Scores First Military Sale

Textron Aviation has received its inaugural military order for the Cessna SkyCourier, with five multirole aircraft to support Belgium’s special operations forces. According to the aircraft manufacturer, this selection “launches the SkyCourier into the global defense market…and underscores its readiness for high-consequence missions.”

In Belgian service, the high-wing turboprop twin will be used to transport personnel and equipment while supporting logistics, medical evacuation, and crisis response missions. Prime contractor Sabena Engineering will take delivery of the aircraft throughout 2027, with in-country modifications—including mission-specific integration and certification—preceding the final aircraft transfer.

The company believes the aircraft’s “combination of rugged performance, low operating cost, and the ability to operate from short and unimproved runways” makes it especially suited to special-mission uses.

Separately, Textron Aviation announced a new in-flight operable door for the passenger variant, intended to expand the SkyCourier’s versatility. The manufacturer expects this to be available as a special mission factory-installed option in 2028.