Just days after a new cut in aircraft procurement was announced—citing the need to redirect funds toward platforms designed for high-intensity combat—the U.S. Air Force revealed that it is conducting new tests with its OA-1K Skyraider II attack aircraft, which form part of the fleet assigned to the service’s Special Operations Command. According to official sources, the tests are taking place at Eglin Air Force Base and are primarily intended to ensure the aircraft meet established operational requirements.
Delving into further details, the tests are being carried out by the 96th Test Wing in coordination with the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command. These trials are focused on assessing the airworthiness of the aircraft to verify data provided by the manufacturer. In a later phase, the aircraft will be tested in its specific role supporting special operations in austere environments, given that it is capable of delivering close air support, armed intelligence, and reconnaissance for such missions.
Additionally, the U.S. Air Force stated that the program presents a good opportunity to test and adapt procedures for operating an aircraft equipped with a tailwheel—a configuration not seen in the service for decades. In line with this, it was revealed that pilots from the 96th Test Wing underwent prior training on AT-802 aircraft, the civilian variant in which the systems for the OA-1K Skyraider II are integrated.
As noted earlier, it is important to recall that in its budget proposal for the next fiscal year, the Air Force halved the number of OA-1K Skyraider II aircraft to be procured, reducing the figure from 12 to 6. This decision adds to a history of prior reductions, as in FY2025 the USAF cut its planned purchase from 15 to 12 aircraft.
In this context, it is worth remembering that the official requirement from Special Operations Command was for 75 units of the platform, although as of now only 45 are under contract for delivery by 2026. The first units were accepted by the U.S. Air Force earlier this year, and the service currently has a fleet of eight Skyraiders, with six more expected to be delivered by the end of the year.
*Cover image: Samuel King Jr.
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