The U.S. Air Force plans to buy up to six light-attack aircraft from Textron (NYSE: TXT) and a Sierra Nevada Corp.-Embraer team for use in training and experimental activities as part of the National Defense Strategy.
USAF issued a final request for proposals for AT-6 Wolverine aircraft from Textron’s aviation business to support Air Combat Command’s testing and development of tactical networks at Nellis AF Base in Nevada for missions with international allies, the military service said Friday.
The branch provided a separate RFP for A-29 Super Tucano turboprop planes from the SNC-Embraer partnership to aid AF Special Operations Command’s instructor pilot program at Hurlburt Field in Florida.
A draft solicitation for the aircraft was released in August 2018 after USAF completed the second phase of experiments.
Gen. David Goldfein, USAF chief of staff and a 2017 Wash100 Award recipient, said continued experimentation allows the service to deploy a limited number of light attack aircraft through increments and collaborate with partner nations.
“Our focus is on how a light attack aircraft can help our allies and partners as they confront violent extremism and conduct operations within their borders,†Goldfein added.
The branch expects to award a contract to the SNC-Embrarer alliance the end of the year and another contract to Textron in early 2020.
