Free Republic

Light-attack aircraft come in many forms: purpose-built turboprops such as the Embraer A-29, converted turboprop trainers like the Beechcraft AT-6 and Korea Aerospace Industries KT-1, and even jet-powered trainers modified to carry weapons and surveillance equipment. Then there is the most unlikely story of them all: the AirTractor AT-802 and Thrush 710. These almost identical, tail-sitting cropdusters are now operating as light combat aircraft in several countries in the Middle East and Africa. They are American-built aircraft sold exclusively to foreign countries without – so far – a US military customer or sponsor. And they have even spawned a fierce...

At least three different aircraft will participant in the U.S. Air Force’s light attack experiment, commonly referred to as OA-X, according to the companies involved. All that remains to be seen is just how serious the service actually is about pursuing the concept. On May 12, 2017, Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) issued a press release on behalf of itself and its partner, Embraer Defense & Security, announcing that they would be sending their A-29 light attack aircraft to the Air Force’s evaluation. On May 15, 2017, Textron Aviation sent out a notice that its AT-6 Wolverine and Scorpion aircraft were...