USSOCOM eyes additional ISR-configured Dash 8s

摘要

AS PART of an extensive effort to modernise and recapitalise its aviation assets, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is eyeing key procurement decisions, including possible acquisition of additional de Havilland Canada (DHC) Dash 8 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. The force currently operates a single specially configured aircraft of the type, known as the R0-6A Airborne Reconnaissance Low-Enhanced (ARL-E). Based on the DHC-8, the ARL-E features COMINT and IMINT sensors, including long-and short-range ground and dismounted moving target indicator/synthetic aperture radar and high-definition electro-optical and hyperspectral imagery sensors. Providing a variety of updates on USSOCOM's ongoing fixed-wing and rotary-wing programmes during the Special Operations Force Industry Conference (SOFIC) held at the Tampa Convention Center in Florida from May 17-21, officials outlined the intention to bring the Dash 8-based ISR fleet up to three aircraft by the end of 2022.