Copyright © 2026 – General Atomics AeroTec Systems – Do228 NXT
As the Do228 NXT makes its African debut at the El Alamein Airshow, General Atomics AeroTec Systems is highlighting the aircraft’s enhanced capabilities and its potential to meet the continent’s diverse aviation and security requirements. In this exclusive interview with African Security Magazine, Benjamin Schuhmann, Head of Sales at General Atomics AeroTec Systems, discusses the Do228 NXT’s latest improvements, its suitability for surveillance, border security, search and rescue and other special missions, as well as the company’s long-term strategy and partnership ambitions across Africa.
African Security Magazine: The Do228 NXT made its African debut at the El Alamein Airshow. What are the principal improvements and capabilities that distinguish the NXT version from earlier Do228 aircraft?
Benjamin Schuhmann: The Do228 NXT combines the proven capabilities of the original Do228 with modern avionics, upgraded aircraft systems and an improved supply chain. We have maintained its exceptional STOL performance, reliability and versatility while ensuring the aircraft remains operationally relevant for decades to come.
African Security Magazine: Which operational roles and missions is the Do228 NXT particularly well suited to perform for African armed forces, government agencies and civilian operators?
Benjamin Schuhmann: The Do228 NXT is an extremely versatile platform, suitable for maritime surveillance, border patrol, search and rescue, environmental monitoring and regional passenger transport. Its multirole capabilities allow customers to address several operational requirements with a single aircraft type.
African Security Magazine: How can the aircraft support maritime surveillance, border security, search and rescue, environmental monitoring and other special-mission requirements across the African continent?
Benjamin Schuhmann: We offer tailored mission solutions incorporating advanced surveillance radars, electro-optical sensors and modern mission management systems. This enables operators to monitor maritime territories, secure borders, combat illegal fishing and support search and rescue operations across Africa.
African Security Magazine: What advantages does the Do228 NXT offer when operating from short or unprepared runways, particularly in remote areas with limited aviation infrastructure?
Benjamin Schuhmann: The Do228 NXT’s exceptional short takeoff and landing capabilities make it ideal for Africa’s challenging environments. Its robust design allows operations from short and suitable unprepared runways, providing access to remote areas with limited aviation infrastructure.
African Security Magazine: What opportunities does General Atomics AeroTec Systems see for cooperation with African governments, operators and local industries, including training, maintenance and long-term technical support?
Benjamin Schuhmann: Our objective is to establish long-term partnerships rather than simply sell aircraft. We offer comprehensive training, maintenance and technical support while exploring opportunities to cooperate with local aviation industries and develop sustainable support solutions.
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