The operational testing of the newest aircraft to join the impressive armada of the US Air Force. The 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) in Florida is checking all the boxes to ensure this up-armored crop-duster will meet all the mission requirements for the special forces it is set to support.

The Skyraider II was tailor-made to support isolated units in austere battlefields that need close air support, precision strikes, or intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) from a rugged platform. The first mission-capable example was delivered to the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) on April 4, 2025.

Taildragger At The Tip Of The Spear Close

The goal of the Skyraider II program is to support irregular warfare operations while freeing up more “exquisite”

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