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Instead of kit planes, we could 'sell' them a real observation aircraft - the 0-2 (Cessna 337) Easy to fly, fix and maintain, right now parts are available as is training. It is a standard platform and can carry all the milcom gear needed.

The aircraft from which the O-2 sprang was originally designated the Cessna Model 336 Skymaster and was built for civilian use. The 336 had the distinctive push-pull engine layout of the O-2 and fixed landing gear. It was cheap, easy to fly, and the problem of flying a two-engine aircraft on just one engine was made easier, since asymmetrical thrust was non-existent. Early in 1965, the Model 337 entered production with retractable landing gear. After being equipped with four underwing hard-points, extra windows for the observer, and a military radio system, the Model 337 became the Cessna O-2A. A special psychological warfare version, the O-2B, was produced in limited numbers. It used three powerful directional speakers to broadcast messages, and also performed propaganda leaflet drops. The O-2 was retired from USAF service in the 1980s, but a militarized 337, marketed as the Sentry, has been supplied by the CIA to forces in Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Senegal.

During its production run, 544 O-2s were built, and some continue to serve with forestry departments across the United States. Quite a few others are flown as warbirds, including at least one in Australia

Better than the old one!