Congress included language in the defense authorization bill that would let the Air Force shift its light attack aircraft funding to U.S. Special Operations Command.
The U.S. military needs to procure a light attack aircraft, and end the current practice of using our high-capability, high-cost jet fighters to conduct operations when their capabilities far exceed those required for the missions, the author writes.
A new light attack aircraft could provide the Air Force a cheaper, more cost-effective way of dealing with low-end threats — and free up its more advanced fighters to deal with more serious adversaries.
Despite the demonstration being canceled, an eventual program of record has become the assumed outcome of further experimentation planned for two turboprop planes.
The Air Force’s legendary A-1E Skyraiders proved their mettle in the skies over Vietnam. Air Force leaders now see a similar need for a low-cost, slower-moving aircraft for missions in low-threat environments.
The U.S. Air Force’s light attack experiment is officially over as of Aug. 30, but it will be months before the service makes a decision on whether to hold a combat demonstration.