Tecnam, a renowned aircraft manufacturer, announced on September 19 that Apex Aviation in Taiwan has entered into a memorandum of understanding to acquire a specialized P2012 Sentinel SMP aircraft. This piston twin will be dedicated to surveillance and maritime patrol duties, equipped with advanced IMSAR electronic sensor equipment, including two EO/IR cameras, a comprehensive power box for system support, radar capabilities, infrared sensors, AIS sensors, and a data downlink installation.
The signing of this memorandum was officially disclosed by Apex's CEO, Wilson Chien Yu Kao, during the Taipei Aerospace and Defense Technology Exhibition. Located in Taitung, Apex had previously acquired a P2012 for skydiving and aerial tourism purposes in 2022, followed by the procurement of a second aircraft specifically configured for air ambulance service in June of this year. Notably, Apex has retained options for an additional six P2012 aircraft.
Chien Yu Kao expressed confidence in the Tecnam P2012 Sentinel SMP, emphasizing its suitability for the Taiwan Coast Guard's mission requirements. He highlighted the aircraft's impressive range, payload capacity, and characteristics, asserting that, with IMSAR components onboard, the new aircraft will set a cutting-edge standard for maritime patrolling in the region.