137th SOW Welcomes First AT-802U Aircraft
The 137th Special Operations Wing has officially welcomed its first AT-802U trainer aircraft, marking a key milestone in the Air Force’s rollout of the OA-1K Skyraider II program. The aircraft arrived at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base, Oklahoma City, on July 29, 2024, following test pilot training at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This trainer will be used to prepare the initial cadre of aircrews for operations with the missionized OA-1K variant.
Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall previously selected Will Rogers ANGB as the site for the Total Force Integration OA-1K Formal Training Unit, making it the central hub for building out the Skyraider II’s operational community. The AT-802U serves as a representative tailwheel platform, allowing pilots to master the handling characteristics unique to this rugged, short takeoff and landing aircraft before transitioning to the fully outfitted OA-1K.
The OA-1K is designed as a low-cost, multirole aircraft capable of rapid deployment and persistent support for special operations forces. Its mission set includes close air support, precision strike, and armed ISR, all executed from austere or permissive environments where traditional aircraft may struggle to operate.
The arrival of the trainer aircraft signals a shift from program development to operational preparation. As aircrews begin their transition training, Will Rogers ANGB is cementing its role at the center of the Skyraider II enterprise—helping shape the future of special operations airpower one sortie at a time.