Belgium has awarded Textron Aviation a contract for the purchase of five Cessna SkyCourier aircraft, marking the platform’s first entry into military service. Deliveries are scheduled throughout 2027 to Sabena Engineering, the Belgian military’s established maintenance, repair, and overhaul provider.
Sabena Engineering will oversee mission-specific modifications and certification before transferring the high-wing turboprop aircraft to Belgium’s Special Operations Forces. According to Textron Aviation Defense President and CEO Travis Tyler, this initial military selection reflects growing interest from armed forces and highlights the aircraft’s suitability for demanding operational missions.
Designed for versatility, the SkyCourier can operate from short and unprepared runways while maintaining low operating costs. It is optimized for rapid transport roles, including logistics, medical evacuation, and crisis response missions.
The aircraft is equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, adaptable cabin layouts, and twin wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines paired with McCauley C779 propellers. It offers a cruising speed exceeding 200 KTAS (370 km/h) and a maximum range of approximately 900 nautical miles (1,667 km).
The SkyCourier is available in two configurations: a freighter version capable of carrying up to 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) of payload, and a 19-passenger variant with a payload capacity of up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg). Both versions feature single-point pressure refueling capability.
