SNC Wins $170M to Deliver RAPCON-X Jets to Finnish Border Guard

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) has secured a $170-million contract to supply two RAPCON-X jets to the Finnish Border Guard as part of the "MVX" program.

These jets, currently in production, are part of SNC’s latest integrated aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (A-ISR) solutions.

The RAPCON-X-configured Bombardier Challenger 650 aircraft will be tailored to meet the Finnish Border Guard’s MVX specifications. This customization aims to modernize and significantly enhance the capabilities of Finland's fixed-wing fleet.

Tim Owings, executive vice president of SNC’s Mission Solutions and Technologies business area, commented on the partnership, highlighting the critical role of the RAPCON-X system in enhancing interoperability within Finland's national security infrastructure and NATO, ensuring mission success now and in the future.

The Finnish Border Guard's existing fleet is tasked with monitoring borders and territorial waters, supporting maritime rescue operations, identifying environmental emergencies at sea, and assisting in clean-up efforts. The new RAPCON-X aircraft will bolster these efforts, particularly along Finland's eastern border, by providing more efficient and multi-purpose capabilities.

RAPCON-X offers high reliability, extended range, endurance, and an operational envelope that enhances survivability. In its MVX configuration, it can perform all legacy missions while delivering superior capability, interoperability, and upgradability for the next 30 years.

Josh Walsh, vice president of programs at SNC, emphasized the aircraft's suitability for Finland’s maritime and border patrol challenges and expressed pride in supporting Finland, a new NATO ally, in enhancing European security.

The RAPCON-X solution leverages model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and an open architecture for mission systems, allowing for rapid modifications and future upgrades. This flexibility will ensure the aircraft remain cutting-edge over their operational lifespan.

The contract signing took place on June 27, 2024, in Helsinki, Finland. The RAPCON-X aircraft will be integrated at SNC's center in Hagerstown, Maryland, with deliveries expected in 2026 and 2027.