The twin jet, fighter-like Javelin very light business jet is ready for its first flight — to take place in late September or early October — as this is written. The Javelin Mk. 20 military trainer version is expected to fly soon afterward. First deliveries are scheduled for late 2007.
Aviation Technology Group Chairman George Bye says that more than 100 deposits are in hand already. He described the Javelin as “the fastest civil certified jet in the world,” but admitted that its civilian market is a narrow one. He predicted that some 400 would be sold in civilian form, and another 1,400 as military trainers or, possibly, Homeland Security defense fighters. ATG is working with Israel Aircraft Industries on development and marketing of the Mk. 20 version.
Javelin’s projected cruise speed is Mach 0.9, a number which, if achieved, certainly will put the airplane in a class by itself. Its twin Williams FJ-33 turbofans are expected to kick it skyward at 10,000 feet per minute. A service ceiling of 45,000 feet and range of 1,200 nautical miles also is expected, Bye said.