U.S Army Adds Fourth Global 6500 Jet to HADES ISR Program as First Non‑Prototype Aircraft

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U.S Army Adds Fourth Global 6500 Jet to HADES ISR Program

The U.S Army has expanded its High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES) intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) program with a fourth Bombardier Global 6500 business jet, the first aircraft acquired specifically as a non‑prototype platform. This move supports ongoing efforts to build out a next‑generation deep‑sensing ISR fleet.

Sierra Nevada Buys Fourth Aircraft

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) announced it has purchased a fourth Global 6500 jet at its own expense for the Army’s HADES program. Unlike earlier jets that entered the project as prototypes, this aircraft is intended to serve as the first non‑prototype platform, helping de‑risk integration and support schedule milestones.

Fielding multiple Global 6500 jets builds on years of Army experimentation with large business jet platforms for advanced ISR roles. The HADES program aims to deliver extended range, altitude and endurance over legacy turboprop ISR platforms.

Program Context and Transition

The Army awarded Sierra Nevada a systems integrator role for HADES under a 12‑year contract worth up to nearly $1 billion, with Bombardier supplying initial airframes for modification. The Global 6500 aircraft, with long endurance and high altitude capability, is central to the service’s deep‑sensing strategy.

This expansion aligns with broader shifts in Army airborne ISR. The service continues to retire legacy turboprop platforms and pivot toward jet‑based solutions that offer greater range, persistence and sensor accommodation.

What Comes Next

The first HADES Global 6500 prototype is undergoing integration for advanced ISR systems. Additional jets, like the newly acquired fourth aircraft, will support further testing, certification and eventual operational fielding. Continued updates are expected as the Army moves toward initial operational capability.