Falcon 6X: Ireland’s New Military Aircraft Contract
Ireland’s Department of Defence has officially signed a contract with Dassault Aviation for the acquisition of the Falcon 6X jet, a move aimed at bolstering the military’s strategic capabilities. This advanced aircraft, valued at €53 million (approximately $55 million), will be based at Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel and operated by the Irish Air Corps. Currently, the assembly of the Falcon 6X is taking place at Dassault’s production facility in Bordeaux, France, with an anticipated delivery date set for December 2025.
During the contract signing ceremony, Irish Defence Minister Micheál Martin emphasized the transformative potential of the Falcon 6X. He highlighted its impressive design, which allows for direct flights from Ireland to the US west coast without requiring refueling. This capability marks a significant advancement in the operational flexibility of the Irish Defence Forces, enabling them to respond swiftly to various military and humanitarian needs.
Versatile Applications for the Falcon 6X
Minister Martin outlined the diverse roles that the Falcon 6X will fulfill, stating it will be instrumental in non-combatant evacuations of Irish citizens facing critical situations. Additionally, the aircraft will facilitate air-ambulance patient transfers, medical evacuations, and the repatriation of Irish Defence Forces personnel engaged in overseas missions. Furthermore, it will support logistical efforts by transporting supplies to operations abroad, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the Irish military.
The Falcon 6X is not just a standard military aircraft; it is designed to provide a robust and flexible air transport service, an increasingly vital requirement for the government in meeting both national and international commitments. This multi-purpose capability underscores the importance of the Falcon 6X in contemporary defence strategies.
Specifications and Capabilities of the Falcon 6X
Initially introduced to the market in November 2023, the Falcon 6X represents a significant upgrade from the earlier Falcon 5X, which was launched in the early 2000s. This modern jet measures 26 meters (85 feet) in length and can accommodate up to 16 passengers or carry around 23,200 kilograms (51,147 pounds) of cargo. Its twin Pratt & Whitney PurePower engines allow the aircraft to reach a maximum speed of Mach 0.9, translating to approximately 1,111 kilometers (691 miles) per hour.
In addition to its impressive speed and capacity, the Falcon 6X boasts a remarkable range of 5,500 nautical miles (10,186 kilometers or 6,329 miles). For the specific needs of the Irish Defence Forces, the aircraft will be outfitted with specialized Military Communications Systems, which will be arranged through a separate contract, ensuring that it meets the operational requirements of modern military missions.
