First Missionized Skyraider II Aircraft Delivered to U.S. Special Ops Command

The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command took delivery of its first missionized Skyraider II on April 3, officially bringing the modular combat aircraft into U.S. Special Operations Command service.

Held at an undisclosed location, the delivery ceremony featured remarks from AFSOC Commander Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, who emphasized that the Skyraider II’s adaptability will enhance the command’s ability to conduct joint campaigns and respond to crises.

Based on the rugged AT-802 platform, the Skyraider II is engineered to perform a wide array of mission sets, including close air support, precision strike, and armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). Its modular design enables rapid reconfiguration depending on mission needs, allowing AFSOC to stay aligned with evolving directives from the Secretary of Defense and the President.

Designed with operational efficiency in mind, the Skyraider II requires a smaller maintenance footprint and operates at a lower cost per flying hour compared to conventional or legacy special operations aircraft.

Additional Skyraider II aircraft will be delivered in the coming months to the formal training unit located at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base in Oklahoma.