Eglin, Florida – US Air Force continues the OA-1K Skyraid II development tests, which is the latest airplane in the special operational headquarters.
The tests are the 96. Test wing It performs in cooperation with the special operational headquarters of its air force, with the aim of the aircraft to meet the strict requirements of modern battlefield.
The primary purpose of the test team is to prove the airplane’s capacity of the aircraft, to check the accuracy of the manufacturer’s power data, and to ultimately evaluate the efficiency of the machine during real special operation missions.
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The OA-1K Skyraider II is a low -cost platformthat is designed to support special units in geographically isolated and in a harsh environment. The aircraft can adapt to a variety of missions including the close air support, precision strikes, armed reconnaissance and ISR (detection, observation and detection) operations.
Special design and operational challenges
One of the most remarkable features of OA-1K is a tail-wheel chassis arrangementthat has not been used by the US Air Force for more than 50 years. This required a new approach to testing, which forced evalurators to develop new methods to measure and certify performance.
“Operation of Skyraider II required a lot of participation from regulatory issues to operational support,” he explained Major Stephen WakefieldMember of the 96th Test Wing. According to him, the process was part of a special training with the civilian version, the AT-802 type to get the pilots get used to tail driving technology.
Elite pilots on testing
Experienced pilots who know a variety of aircraft and mission types have been selected for the OA-1K test program. Major Jacob Marshalso from the 96th wing, said:
“The OA-1K flight is both challenging and experience. I have to bring my best shape every day. Flighting is just a bonus.”
Marsh before UH-1N He helicopters led at the Navy’s Test Pilot School and emphasized that at certain speeds, the behavior of helicopters and rigid machines was similar, which made it easier for him to adapt to the new type.
Testing progress and following steps
So far the staff Landing tests performed by evaluating human factors, conducted controls in difficult terrainand carried out missions that focused on the quality of on -board sensors. In the near future the OA-1K for armament-release tests they are submitted.
With robust, adaptable and hostile environments for critical missions, OA-1K Skyraider II is a promising confirmation for the United States’ special operational air force.
Source and photos: US Air Force / 96. Test wing / EGLIN AFB. The content is made with artificial intelligence and controlled by an editorial team.
