Le Bourget, June 17 2025 – Aerodata AG, a leading system integrator and expert in mission management systems for airborne reconnaissance, and German regional aircraft manufacturer, Deutsche Aircraft, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Paris Air Show 2025. This marks the beginning of a strategic partnership to deliver a rapidly available, German-made Special Mission Aircraft solution for a wide range of surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

The goal is to have a solution in place for a Special Mission Aircraft ‘Made in Germany’ for use in a wide range of reconnaissance and surveillance scenarios for Deutsche Aircraft’s regional turboprop the D328eco. The D328eco and the D328® platforms will be equipped with, Aerodata's state-of-the-art mission management system AeroMission®, as well as other specialised mission equipment.

A proven legacy,  a future-ready versatile platform

The existing D328 platform has already demonstrated its multi-role capabilities through its service with the US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) as the C-146A “Wolfhound”. With over 200,000 operational flight hours, the aircraft has proven its reliability in global mobility, MEDEVAC, cargo and passenger transport.

Building on this legacy, the D328eco introduces a new generation of mission-ready aircraft. Designed with modular cabin layouts, a large in-flight operable door, and quick conversion capabilities, the D328eco is engineered for multi-role operations—from ISR and maritime patrol to aerial firefighting, medevac, and humanitarian missions.

Strengthening European sovereignty in airborne surveillance

The strategic partnership combines Aerodata's unique expertise and decades of experience in the development, production, integration and certification of mission management systems and sensor technology for airborne reconnaissance with Deutsche Aircraft’s extensive technological expertise as a regional aircraft manufacturer. At a time of volatile geopolitical and security policy upheaval, this collaboration will significantly contribute to strengthening national and European airborne surveillance capabilities by rapidly delivering a ‘Made in Germany’ Special Mission Aircraft.

"Airborne maritime reconnaissance is a key component in protecting critical maritime infrastructure and serves to secure geopolitical freedom of action,” said Neset Tükenmez, CEO of Aerodata. “It is essential for the early detection of threats and contributes to maintaining sovereignty. We are therefore delighted to be working with Deutsche Aircraft to jointly develop a forward-looking complete solution for the D328eco, thereby further advancing technological progress in Germany".

“The D328eco is designed to be the most versatile and sustainable turboprop in its class,” remarked Nico Neumann, CEO of Deutsche Aircraft. “By partnering with Aerodata, we are combining proven mission systems with a next-generation platform to deliver a truly German-engineered solution for global ISR and special mission needs.”