Air Force Pilots Begin Training for Air Tractor-Based Light Attack Variant
The aircraft will perform close air support, precision strike, armed intelligence, and surveillance and reconnaissance in austere and permissive environments.
Air Force pilots have begun training with Air Tractor AT-802U aircraft in anticipation of receiving the OA-1K Sky Warden light attack aircraft later this year.
The OA-1K, based on the AT-802 and developed jointly by Air Tractor and L3Harris, is a multirole aircraft designed for special operations, capable of carrying 3 tons of weapons and performing extended loitering for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Despite its capabilities, observers question the program's commitment due to the Air Force's shift away from counter-insurgency operations and a reported reduction in planned OA-1K purchases from 75 to 62 units.
Air Force pilots have begun training with two Air Tractor AT-802U turboprop taildraggers in anticipation of first deliveries of OA-1K Sky Warden light attack aircraft later this year.
The OA-1K is based on the AT-802 and is a joint project between Air Tractor and defense contractor L3Harris.
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