US Special Ops OV-10s in Europe

摘要

Two US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) OV-10G+ Broncos have been test flying from Naval Air Station Rota in Spain, having arrived by ship earlier this year. The aircraft, 155481 and 155492, were part of the Combat Dragon Ⅱ programme, loaned from NASA for trials in the light air support role with a view to operations in Afghanistan in support of ground troops. The experiment concluded on September 30, 2013 but the aircraft have been retained by SOCOM. What the aircraft are now being used for is unclear, although their arrival in Spain suggests it may be to support operations in the US Africa Command region. They have been modified with digital cockpits, AN/ALE-47 countermeasures dispenser systems and the ability to fire rockets.