Will Join Embraer Super Tucano In The OA-X Experiment This Summer

Textron has been invited by the U.S. Air Force to participate in the OA-X light attack experiment this summer with two of its military aircraft.

Both the Beechcraft AT-6 and Scorpion multimission tactical jet will participate in the USAF's evaluation of aircraft to augment the aging fleet of A-10 Warthogs. The primary role of the A-10 is to provide close-air support for ground troops.

The Wichita Eagle reports that in a statement, Textron called the invitation "an exciting step forward for these programs, and we are confident the Scorpion and AT-6 are exceptional platforms to fulfill the USAF’s light attack mission. Both platforms offer advanced mission systems technology, affordability and adaptability. Designed, sourced and built in the United States, the Scorpion and AT-6 also offer a strong, positive economic impact aligned with the goals of the current administration.”

The evaluation will take place at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico.

Earlier this week, Embraer and Sierra Nevada Corp issued a news release saying that the A-29 Super Tucano would also be part of the evaluation process.

The Air Force is also evaluating the Scorpion for other potential missions, which is the first time the service has conducted such an evaluation for an aircraft that it has not ordered. Textron hopes that the evaluation may lead to orders from other military services overseas, according to the report.

(Images from file)

FMI: www.txtav.com