Customs and Border Protection (CBP) last week introduced its new Multi-role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA), which has begun initial test and evaluation along the southwest border in anticipation of conducting operational missions later this year.
The MEA is based on a based on a Hawker Beechcraft King Air 350 twin-engine turboprop that is missionized by prime contractor Sierra Nevada Corp. The MEA is manned by a four-person crew, including two sensor operators, and is equipped with active and passive sensors, technical collection equipment, and satellite communications capabilities for ground interdiction, air-to-air intercept and medium-range maritime operations.
The aircraft includes a Selex 7500 radar for marine search, and limited air search, capability and an L-3 Communications [LLL] Wescam MX15 HDi day/night camera.
Sierra Nevada has been contracted to supply 30 MEAs, although CBP has a requirement for 50 of the aircraft. The agency is acquiring the planes to replace three types of older, less capable aircraft.
The MEA is capable of flying six-hour missions over land and sea for patrols as well as to assist ground and marine agents in apprehending smugglers and potential terrorists.