Defense & Military
Saudi Ministry of Interior Awards Aerial Contract to Thrush Aircraft and AAT
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior awards contract to Thrush Aircraft and AAT to enhance firefighting and border security with localized support.
This article summarizes reporting by AerialFire Magazine.
On February 23, 2026, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) awarded a significant contract to Albany, Georgia-based Thrush Aircraft and its local strategic partner, Advanced Aircraft Technology (AAT). According to a report by AerialFire Magazine, the agreement is designed to enhance the Kingdom’s aerial capabilities, specifically targeting firefighting and border security operations, while adhering to the localization mandates of Vision 2030.
The deal positions Thrush Aircraft as the prime manufacturer for the fleet, while AAT will serve as the in-country provider for logistics, maintenance, and training. This partnership underscores a growing trend of integrating international manufacturing expertise with domestic support infrastructure to ensure long-term operational readiness.
The collaboration between the US manufacturer and the Saudi service provider covers a “tail-to-tooth” support structure. While specific fleet numbers were not disclosed in the initial announcement, the partnership focuses on delivering specialized aerial application aircraft suited for the region’s unique environmental challenges.
Industry observers note that the contract likely involves the Thrush 710P Fire Bird, a single-engine air tanker designed for rapid initial attack on wildfires. With a 710-gallon hopper and advanced avionics, this model is capable of operating from remote, unimproved airstrips, making it a strategic asset for the General Directorate of Civil Defense.
Additionally, the Thrush 510G model may be utilized for surveillance and border patrol missions. These aircraft offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional rotorcraft, providing long loiter times essential for monitoring the Kingdom’s extensive borders.
As the local strategic partner, AAT is tasked with ensuring that the economic benefits of the contract remain within Saudi Arabia. Headquartered in Riyadh, AAT is licensed by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) and will handle:
“AAT has previously stated its mission is to diversify Aviation services by localizing them in KSA utilizing our vast relationships with Aviation local and international partners.”
, Background information via AerialFire Magazine
This contract award follows significant developments in Saudi Arabia’s defense industrial base. In May 2025, AAT entered a partnership with Burkhan World Investments (BWI) to establish “BWI Nexus,” a defense innovation hub backed by a reported $5 billion fund. This infrastructure is expected to support the lifecycle management of the new Thrush fleet, positioning the Kingdom as a regional hub for light attack and aerial firefighting aircraft maintenance.
Localization as a Priority Operational Shift Who are the primary contractors? What aircraft are likely included? What is the role of AAT?
Saudi Ministry of Interior Awards Aerial Contract to Thrush Aircraft and AAT
Contract Scope and Fleet Capabilities
Aircraft Specifications
Role of Advanced Aircraft Technology (AAT)
Strategic Industrial Context
AirPro News Analysis
This agreement is a clear execution of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to localize 50% of defense spending. By mandating a local partner like AAT for the sustainment phase, the Ministry of Interior ensures that technical expertise is transferred to Saudi nationals and that maintenance expenditures circulate within the domestic economy rather than flowing exclusively to foreign contractors.
From an operational standpoint, the acquisition of fixed-wing single-engine air tankers represents a shift toward more agile, rapid-response firefighting. Unlike heavy water bombers that require major airport infrastructure, the Thrush platforms can deploy from smaller regional airfields. This capability allows for faster reaction times to wildfires, potentially containing incidents before they escalate into unmanageable blazes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thrush Aircraft (USA) is the aircraft manufacturer, and Advanced Aircraft Technology (Saudi Arabia) is the local partner responsible for support and maintenance.
The deal is expected to utilize the Thrush 710P Fire Bird for firefighting and potentially the 510G for surveillance and border security.
AAT will provide in-country support, including pilot training, supply chain management, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
Sources
Photo Credit: Agricultural Aviation Magazine