In 2017, the AT-802L Longsword™ was one of only four aircraft that met rigorous U.S. Air Force criteria required to participate in the Light Attack Experiment (OA-X) at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. This places the AT-802L in a unique category of platforms that can support partner nations.
USAF stated goals of OA-X included:
- Lower operating costs of counter-terrorism operations, perform close air support and other missions while operating in permissive environments.
- Minimize the use of front line fighters.
- Create partner capacity in nations.
The Office of Strategic Development Planning and Experimentation (SDPE) conducted the Light Attack Experiment (OA-X) to evaluate the military utility of various non-developmental, light-attack platforms.
AT-802L Longsword flew a total of 41 sorties with six different USAF Test Pilots. The sorties evaluated the airplane’s performance capabilities, flying-handling qualities, acoustic and Infrared (IR) signatures.
Light Attack Experiment Results Summary
- AT-802L Longsword had the greatest payload and endurance of any turboprop participant.
- Test pilots found the AT-802L maneuverable and easy to fly.
- Recognized capability as a weapons platform with very simple logistics.
- Exceeded Contractor Owned – Contractor Operated standards.
- Exceeded Manufacturing Readiness standards.