The corporate jet that became a naval radar trainer

Wars & Conflicts · Published 16 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Cessna Citation II is a staple of executive travel, but its design was so versatile it found a second life in military training. From high-altitude business trips to specialized naval radar instruction, this aircraft demonstrates how a

To enhance the Citation I, the mid-1970s saw the creation of the Citation II (Model 550), which boosted the gross weight to 13,300 lb (6,000 kg) and expanded seating for ten people while raising cruise velocity. To achieve these gains, Cessna stretched the fuselage by 1.14m (3 ft 9in) and increased the wingspan by 5.1 ft (1.6 m). A range of 1,159 nmi (2,146 km) was achieved alongside a cruise speed of 385 kn (713 km/h) through these specific upgrades.

The aircraft's versatility led to several specialized variants. The II/SP is a single-pilot version with a reduced maximum takeoff weight of 12,500 lb (5,700 kg), while the improved S/II (Model S550) introduced a supercritical airfoil and fluid deicing systems to reach speeds exceeding 400 kn (746 km/h). Additionally, the U.S. Navy adopted a modified S/II version known as the T-47A. This military variant featured a 5 ft (1.5 m) wingspan reduction, hydraulically boosted ailerons for maneuverability, and strengthened windshields for high-speed low-altitude sorties.

The T-47A served as a radar systems trainer for naval radar intercept officers. However, its history includes a significant loss: in July 1993, ten of the fifteen aircraft purchased by the Navy were destroyed in a hangar fire at Forbes Field. The remaining five were eventually transferred to civil owners. Beyond military use, the Citation II has also been utilized by U.S. Customs & Border Protection, configured with fire control radar and imaging systems for operations across several countries including Panama, Honduras, and Mexico.

Even as production ceased in 2006, the Citation II remains relevant through heavy modification. Programs initiated by Sierra Industries and Clifford Development aim to equip the plane with Williams FJ44-3 engines producing 3,000 lbf (13 kN). These upgrades, which can cost up to $1.9 million, aim to increase cruise speeds by 21% and fuel efficiency by 20%, extending the airframe's utility well into the 21st century.

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