Vertex would build new SOC plane

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. - In a move that may have implications for the HQ of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) here, the FY 2022 federal defense budget places some constraints on an "armed overwatch" aircraft acquisition program. The Tampa-based U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) wants to acquire 75 of the aircraft for AFSOC. They would be replacements for AFSOC's fleet of U-28 Draco intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft. All U-28 aircraft will soon need to have new wings installed at considerable cost, according to an Air Force Magazine report. 75 of the aircraft would provide AFSOC with four squadrons and 15 training planes. Like the U-28, the overwatch aircraft would be propeller-driven and perform a variety of missions in austere environments. Among the rationales for the program is that it would cost less than replacing the costlier fighter jets with similar missions. Eglin AFB, Fla., tested five companies’ prototype aircraft in July. One of the manufacturers, if selected, would build its proposed aircraft at Vertex Aerospace’s Crestview, Fla., facility. Vertex is HQ'd out of Madison, Miss. (Source: NW Florida Daily News 12/22/21) Defense budget places constraints on new AFSOC aircraft acquisition (nwfdailynews.com)