OA-1K Officially Dubbed Skyraider II, Honoring the Legendary A-1 Skyraider
The Air Force’s newest light attack and ISR platform has officially been christened the OA-1K Skyraider II—a name that pays tribute to the legendary A-1 Skyraider’s rugged legacy. The announcement came on February 27, 2025, at the Special Air Warfare Symposium, where Lt. Gen. Michael Conley called the aircraft “a capability that’s uniquely ours,” poised to fill mission gaps others may not yet recognize.
Designed as a cost-effective, highly adaptable aircraft, the Skyraider II will deliver close air support, precision strike, and armed ISR for special operations and joint forces. Its distinctive tailwheel configuration enables short takeoffs and landings on unimproved airstrips—mirroring its namesake’s ability to thrive in austere environments. “Providing scalable and precision effects is where the Skyraider II will shine,” said Brig. Gen. Craig Prather, pointing to missions ranging from the U.S. southwest border to operations in Africa.
Built on the proven AT-802U Sky Warden platform, the OA-1K won SOCOM’s Armed Overwatch contract in 2022, beating out competitors like the A-29 Super Tucano and AT-6 Wolverine. Outfitted with eight wing hardpoints and two centerline stations, it can carry up to 8,000 pounds of ordnance, from .50-caliber guns to 20mm cannons. Its low operating cost—measured in the hundreds of dollars per flight hour—makes it an affordable workhorse compared to traditional Air Force aircraft.
The Skyraider II will supplement platforms like the U-28A Draco and is expected to play a key role in irregular warfare missions, providing persistent support for dispersed ground forces in permissive environments. With the first aircraft arriving at Hurlburt Field in spring 2025, AFSOC is reviving a storied name for a modern fight—blending proven toughness with mission flexibility for the next era of special operations.