Air Force Special Operations Command is taking a different approach to testing its newest aircraft OA-1K Skyraider II at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., to account for a feature not seen in the Air Force for over five decades.

The Skyraider II’s distinguishable tailwheel feature required test evaluators to devise a new methodology to verify its performance, according to a service news release. This specifically required extra pilot training with the Skyraider II’s civilian variant, the AT-802, to learn to fly the tailwheel aircraft effectively.

“Flying the OA-1K has been a rewarding experience and certainly something that has required me to bring my skills to work every day,” said Maj. Jacob Marsh, test wing pilot. “The fun of flying it is just a perk of the job.”

Skyraider II was delivered to Air Force Special Operations Command at Hurlburt Field, Fla., in April to begin testing. The 96th Test Wing and the U.S. Special Operations Command are continuing developmental testing to ensure the aircraft meets operational requirements.

Human factor, handling quality and austere landing missions are among the completed tests. Sensor quality and weapons release missions remain to be tested.

“There was quite a bit that went into this, from making sure we were compliant on the regulatory side, to ensuring we had the proper operations support for the Skyraider II,” said Maj. Stephen Wakefield, 96th TW.

Skyraider II is cost-effective and will support special operations in isolated locations. It can be adapted for close air support, precision strike or armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, the Air Force says.

previous coverage

• Skyraider II: Air Force special ops unveils name for new aircraft with nod to attack plane used in Korea, Vietnam
• First mission-ready Skyraider II aircraft delivered to Air Force Special Operations Command