New TBM 940s For The French Ministry of Defense The French Ministry of Defense has ordered four new TBM 940 very fast turboprop aircraft from Daher Socata. The four aircraft are to be utilized as flight test centers, along with associated services for the operation of these airplanes. In further detail the planes will be used for flight testing and safety support, as chase airplanes, in liaison flights, and for operations away from the primary test center locations.
The ministry already utilizes TBMs, but the 700 series that are now older as they were acquired around 1992. "We thank the Ministry of Defense for its confidence with this contract, which will modernize the DGA’s flight test fleet – thereby supporting its development programs for defense systems of the future. This is a strong endorsement for our industry and for our teams, helping to mitigate some of the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected our sector", said Daher CEO, Didier Kayat. The TBM program enjoys a high export customer ratio so it is good that the French Ministry of Defense continues with local support of a home brand. For more information: SOCATA North America, Inc. North Perry Airport, 7501 South Airport Rd. Pembroke Pines, FL 33023 / USA www.tbm.aero ***