Textron Aviation Receives First Military Order For Cessna Skycourier, Launching The Aircraft Into Global Defense Market

Belgium selects SkyCourier fleet to boost special operations airlift for troop transport, logistics, casevac and crisis response

A new ally in the air: An artist’s rendering shows a Cessna SkyCourier configured for military operations, including a special operations paint scheme and mission equipment. The aircraft was selected by Belgium Special Operations Forces.


WICHITA, Kan. (Apr. 7, 2026) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced Belgium has selected the Cessna SkyCourier as its newest special mission aircraft, awarding an order for five multirole aircraft to support the nation’s Special Operations Forces. The selection launches the SkyCourier into the global defense market for the first time and strengthens Belgium’s airlift capability through a rugged, flexible platform built for demanding missions.

Belgium’s SkyCourier fleet will enable rapid movement of personnel and equipment while supporting logistics, medical evacuation and crisis response operations. Deliveries to the prime contractor Sabena Engineering are expected throughout 2027, followed by in‑country military modifications prior to the final aircraft transfer to the Belgian Special Operations Forces.

“This first military selection signals strong armed service interest in the Cessna SkyCourier and underscores its readiness for high‑consequence missions,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “The SkyCourier’s combination of rugged performance, low operating cost and the ability to operate from short and unimproved runways makes it a powerful solution for customers who need dependable lift in unpredictable environments.”

The SkyCourier’s debut into the global defense market builds on its momentum of expansion across new global regions. Designed for reliability and mission adaptability, the twin‑engine, high‑wing turboprop offers flexible cabin configurations, significant payload capacity and proven performance in austere settings.

Belgium’s decision reflects a rising government demand for affordable, multirole aircraft that can support rapidly evolving mission sets. The selection also expands the capabilities of local industry through Sabena’s modification design work in Belgium, reinforcing defense relationships throughout the region.

“Working closely with Textron Aviation, Sabena Engineering will perform all mission‑specific integration and certification in Belgium, ensuring the SkyCourier delivers the flexible, responsive airlift capability our Special Operations Forces require while strengthening national industrial expertise and sovereignty,” added Stephane Burton, CEO, Sabena Engineering.