L3Harris unveiled its new light attack airplane, the Sky Warden, at SOF Week 2025. The aircraft is a militarized variant of the AT-802, primarily designed for close-air support and intelligence missions. It boasts flexible configurations, low maintenance demands, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional fighter jets. The Skyraider II, named after its historic predecessors, is designed to operate in various environments, highlighting its ability to land almost anywhere. Despite questions regarding its role in high-intensity conflicts, officials emphasize its versatility as a critical asset for the US Air Force Special Operations Command.
Like its legendary predecessor, the new Skyraider was built for armed overwatch and attack in permissive environments, though the battlespace is not what it once was.
The Air Force describes the Skyraider II as a flexible aircraft that can be adjusted for different missions and fights, noting that it has a much more manageable maintenance demand.
Rambeau said the Sky Warden is a 'versatile' platform and 'costs a fraction of what you might pay for a fighter jet.'
One of Skyraider II's most important attributes is its ability to operate in different environments. It can also land just about anywhere with a limited logistics footprint.
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