US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) will have candidate platforms for its Armed Overwatch manned aircraft competition, where each fly four demonstration flights between 14 June and 23 July at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.
During the annual Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC) on 17 May, James Smith, SOCOM acquisition executive, said that the command will evaluate if the contenders can meet the runway requirements for austere take-off and landing. SOCOM will also judge offerors on whether their aircraft have the required range and endurance. Inert weapons will be deployed on a range.
A concept drawing of the Paramount Group Bronco II, which is being pitched for the US SOCOM Armed Overwatch procurement. The Bronco II, offered by Leidos, is one of five finalists for the competition. (Bronco Combat Systems)
SOCOM will have candidate aircraft demonstrate their communications capability, both line of sight, and beyond line of sight. Smith said the command will evaluate the offerors’ full-motion video capability, autopilot capability, and oxygen system for crew over three flights.
The fourth and final flight will host a US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) operator in the back seat of offered aircraft to assess capabilities such as manoeuvrability and handling, Smith said. There will be an opportunity for a make-up flight for industry partners. SOCOM is running the Armed Overwatch competition, while the aircraft selected will be fielded by AFSOC.
Looking to read the full article?
Gain unlimited access to Janes news and more...
