Gabriel manufacturer looks to Asia for co-production

The Singapore-based subsidiary of Italian aircraft manufacturer Blackshape is seeking industrial workshare partnerships in Asia for its Gabriel-TP turboprop light aircraft.

‘Blackshape is willing to cooperate for local production in South East Asia countries including: Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar,’ Asia Security Technology (AST) announced on 7 July.

This cooperation could comprise full technology transfer for in-country manufacturing, or local assembly.

Unveiled in February 2020 at the Singapore Airshow, Gabriel-TP is a low-wing two-seat tandem aircraft for military pilot training.

It is certified by EASA in the CS-VLA category for very light aircraft.

Gabriel-TP (pictured) is powered by a Rolls-Royce turboprop and can reach a top speed of 200kt at sea level. Kitted out with external payloads such as cameras or laser-guided missiles, the lcan be adapted for light strike or COIN operations training.

The aircraft includes two glass cockpits and a data recording system for post-session analysis. Safety features include military-grade wiring, five-point seatbelts, anti-blast fuel tanks and a ballistic parachute designed to save both pilots and the aircraft.

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