First OA-1K Skyraider II Enters Service

The venerable Air Tractor AT-802 turboprop aerial applicator can now officially be deemed a "warbird" now that L3Harris Technologies has delivered its first missionized version to the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command.

The aircraft is known as the OA-1K Skyraider II, aimed at being an affordable, low-speed, multifunction aircraft for the kind of low-intensity conflicts SOF supports. On paper, L3Harris says it's aimed at Close Air Support, Precision Strike, and the usual spectrum of ISR support. The delivery is just one of many to come, with more follow-on deliveries in the pipeline for the near future. Once delivered, operators will have a cheaper alternative to pretty much every airframe in the US Air Force fleet, across every mission.

The Air Tractor is a fine match for their demands, being designed for rough & tumble off-airport operations, low & slow flying, and infrequent maintenance to begin with. The upgrade to a Skyraider II includes the necessary comms and avionics to interface with other USAF assets, as well as some modest protection for the cockpit to protect pilots from small arms fire to the canopy and an in-aircraft crash landing. The upgrade does not, surprisingly enough, add an ejection seat to the Air Tractor, leading L3Harris to spend payload on additional rollover protection, airbag harnesses, and an armored tub. The Skyraider program stems from the Skywarden, procured abroad for a near identical mission portfolio. But, in typical fashion, the Skyraider probably gets the top-shelf secret sauce that can't make it past FMS approval for sale elsewhere.

“The Skyraider II reflects L3Harris’ commitment to delivering cost-effective, adaptable solutions that meet the evolving needs of the warfighter,” said Jon Rambeau, President, Integrated Mission Systems, L3Harris. “By leveraging our team’s innovation and expertise, we are providing special operations personnel with a versatile, mission-ready capability that supports operational requirements today and into the future.”

“Air Tractor is thrilled to be a part of this program,” said Jim Hirsch, President, Air Tractor, Inc. “We stand ready to meet the future needs and to ensure this airframe aligns with the expectations of U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command.”

FMI: www.L3Harris.com