With a price tag of around $40m each, the OA-1K Skyraider II brings Special Forces the overwatch support they need on a covert mission or provides all the intelligence they require before conducting a lightning raid in the middle of the night

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: L3Harris / Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II / AT-802U Sky Warden - СШАUSA - 2008

The OA-1K is powered by a 1,600hp Pratt & Whitney turboprop engine, which allows an external load of up to 6,000lb across eight hardpoints, the largest payload capacity of a single-engine turboprop

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: L3Harris / Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II / AT-802U Sky Warden - СШАUSA - 2008

L3Harris views its Sky Warden not only as an aircraft for counter-extremist missions for US Special Operations Command but also the ideal platform for nations looking for self-defence and rapid response capabilities within austere environments

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: L3Harris / Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II / AT-802U Sky Warden - СШАUSA - 2008

As the US pivots its focus towards the Indo-Pacific region, where logistical hurdles and military performance issues may hinder strategic implications, the potential the Skyraider Il offers within uncontested airspace is enormous, not only as overwatch for Special Forces but as an on-site ISR platform

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: L3Harris / Air Tractor OA-1K Skyraider II / AT-802U Sky Warden - СШАUSA - 2008