BN-2B Defender

The BN-2B Defender is a militarized version of the Britten‑Norman Islander, developed in the early 1970s by the British manufacturer Britten‑Norman. Conceived to meet the growing demand for a rugged, short‑take‑off and landing (STOL) aircraft capable of maritime patrol, surveillance and light transport, the Defender entered service with the Royal Air Force and a number of overseas operators. Powered by two 300‑hp (224 kW) Lycoming O‑540 piston engines, the high‑wing monoplane features a reinforced fuselage, enlarged windows, hard‑wired communications and sensor suites, as well as provisions for external stores such as flare dispensers and light armament. Its 1,500‑kg payload capacity and ability to operate from unprepared strips or sea‑based platforms gave it exceptional flexibility for border‑control, search‑and‑rescue and anti‑smuggling missions. Over 200 Defenders were built, and the type remained in active service for more than three decades, influencing the design of subsequent utility aircraft that combine civilian comfort with military capability. The BN‑2B Defender’s blend of reliability, low operating cost and versatile mission equipment cemented its reputation as a workhorse of tactical aviation worldwide. Today several nations still operate refurbished examples, and the airframe’s proven concept continues to inform modern ISR platforms.

Britten-Norman

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