The special-mission variant of Diamond Aircraft’s DA62 made its debut at the Paris Air Show this week. The key structural change for the DA62 MPP is a strengthened nose assembly. While the nose section of the civilian variant of the DA62 is designed only to carry some modest passenger baggage, the DA62 MPP has been modified to support electro-optical and infrared camera turrets up to 220 pounds. A satellite antenna pod on the back supports the full spectrum of communication options for operators needing to send data back home in real time. Engine exhaust for the piston twin has also been routed to the top side of the engine and mixed with fresh air to reduce the aircraft’s noise and IR signature.
Diamond is hoping the combination of jet-fuel-burning piston engines and the shrinking size and weight of special mission equipment will allow the DA62 MPP to eat into portions of the market currently served by more expensive turboprops like the PC-12 or King Air. The DA62 MPP retains 1,000 pounds of payload for crew and special equipment with a full fuel load providing 10 hours of time on station. For operators looking for a one-stop shop, Diamond will provide the aircraft, customization, sensor integration, flight crew and maintenance training, as well as ground stations.
