Tecnam Unveils New P2012 Special Mission Aircraft

Tecnam announced the expansion of its esteemed P2012 aircraft series with the introduction of two new models: the P2012 Special Mission with a Continental engine option and a Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) variant. These additions underscore Tecnam's dedication to delivering a diverse and versatile range of options to Special Mission clients globally.

The P2012 Special Mission builds on the proven success of the P2012 platform, offering exceptional versatility for a variety of applications, including aerial surveillance, border patrol, medevac, terrain mapping, geo mapping, skydiving, cargo transport, and other customised configurations. Operators now have the option to choose between two engine models: the established Lycoming TEO-540-C1A and the newly introduced Continental GT-SIO-520S, ensuring optimal performance tailored to specific mission requirements.

Designed to operate in the most challenging environments and to expand our offerings for Special Mission customers globally, the new engine option now enables all three aircraft variants—Traveller Lycoming, Traveller Continental, and STOL Continental—to be configured as Special Mission Platform aircraft. The P2012 Traveller Continental SMP reintroduces the "classic" piston engine management, providing increased range, endurance, and an intuitive engine layout. Additionally, the P2012 STOL Continental SMP variant offers exceptional takeoff and landing performance on short and unprepared runways, thanks to its extended 16.6-meter wingspan and enhanced lift devices. This significantly reduces the required runway length and lowers the minimum mission speed, allowing for better target persistence.

Tecnam's Sentinel SMP variant elevates special mission aviation by providing a fully customizable and cost-effective ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) solution with multi-mission capabilities. The standard aircraft configuration accommodates 2 pilots (certified for single-pilot operation) and up to 5 operators, observers, or mission commanders.

Equipped with:

• Dual sensor hatches (735×567 mm / 28.9×22.3 in) capable of holding any sensors with plenty of weight allowance.

• Fully integrated mission power box with 100 / 120 Amps 28v DC and optional 115/230v AC inverter for high power loading.

• Fully certified operator console system capable of supporting up to three mission operators in addition to pilots.

• Fully certified equipment rack

• Dedicated GPS/GLONASS antennas for mission-specific avionics and connectivity solutions.

• Advanced avionics suite with an 8-inch pilot’s mission monitor for enhanced operational awareness.

• Multi-role versatility, enabling quick conversion to cargo, medevac, skydiving, and combi configurations.

The Traveller and STOL Continental Special Mission variants are outfitted with the cutting-edge Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite and GFC-700 autopilot, facilitating ease of operation and improved situational awareness. The expansive cabin, accommodating 9 to 11 seats, along with state-of-the-art air conditioning and advanced noise-reduction systems, ensures exceptional comfort for both crew and passengers.

With its versatile multi-mission capabilities, durable airframe, and cost-effective operation, the P2012 consistently establishes new industry standards. The newest models in the P2012 series provide a forward-looking solution for commercial, governmental, and special operations globally.

“The P2012 Special Mission and STOL variants reflect Tecnam’s ongoing commitment to innovation and versatility,” said Giovanni Pascale Langer, Managing Director of Tecnam. “By offering both Lycoming and Continental engine options and enhancing short-field performance, we are ensuring that our customers have the most efficient, adaptable, and capable aircraft for their mission needs.”

Francesco Sferra, P2012 & Special Mission Platforms Sales and Business Development Manager at Tecnam stated: “In the growing demand for capable and safe, yet affordable and cost-efficient Special Mission Platforms, Tecnam has made another innovative step by adding two further variants to its SMP aircraft inventory. The P2012 Continental SMP and the P2012 STOL SMP provide increased range and endurance, simplified management and maintenance, lower operating costs, while also granting access to the most extreme and demanding landing strips in the world. The newly introduced Special Mission Platform variants cover a broad spectrum of special missions, while positioned closer to their operational area and with increased persistence on target.”