Nagema Patriot

The Nagema Patriot is a twin‑engine, high‑wing turboprop transport developed by the German firm Nagema in the late 1970s. Conceived as a versatile replacement for aging military liaison and cargo aircraft, the Patriot made its first flight on 12 March 1981 and entered service with the Bundeswehr in 1984. Its design combines a robust aluminum alloy airframe with a spacious, pressurised cabin that can be rapidly reconfigured for troop transport, medevac, or freight missions, accommodating up to 30 fully equipped soldiers or 6,500 kg of cargo. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A‑68 engines, the aircraft delivers a maximum cruise speed of 470 km/h and a range of 2,200 km, while its short‑field performance enables operations from unprepared runways as short as 800 m. Avionics include a glass cockpit with dual EFIS displays, Full Authority Digital Engine Control, and an integrated tactical data link, providing situational awareness for both civilian and military operators. The Patriot’s reliability and low operating costs made it popular with regional airlines in Europe and Africa, influencing later utility aircraft designs. Its legacy endures as a benchmark for rugged, multi‑role turboprop platforms that bridge the gap between light helicopters and larger transport jets.

Nagema

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