…While Long-Range, High-Altitude Version Considered…

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Even before GROB’s SPn Utility Jet is certified, the company says it is considering a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) version, for government and military surveillance applications. GROB, which has significant experience designing and building aerodynamically efficient sailplanes and motorgliders, has dubbed the proposed variant of the SPn as the “G 600.” The company considers the G 600 a “next logical step,” combining GROBs experience with building high-altitude surveillance aircraft with the new SPn Utility Jet. According to GROB, the jet’s design features, including a composite fuselage and existing titanium wing attachments, make adapting the aircraft for high-altitude missions “both feasible and practical.” The company’s initial design specifications for a possible HALE variant of the SPn Utility Jet include a 61.20-foot-long fuselage, a wingspan of 116.8 feet and payload capacity of 2,650 pounds. Preliminary performance estimates include a range of 5,540 nm, a maximum altitude of FL650 and endurance of 17 hours and 20 minutes. Indicating it has at least considered a remotely piloted version, GROB noted that a “manned configuration would consist of one or two pilots plus two additional mission specialists.” GROB also said it is considering an ultra-long-range version, the G 600 HALE ER, which would feature an extended range of 11,340 nm and an endurance of 33 hours. No word from the company was available on whether equipment for such a version would include a potty.

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