Defense & Military
L3Harris Expands Waco Facility for OA-1K Skyraider II Production
L3Harris expands its Texas facility to increase production of the OA-1K Skyraider II, a versatile light attack aircraft for US and international defense needs.
L3Harris Technologies’ recent expansion of its Waco, Texas facility marks a pivotal development in the U.S. defense aerospace sector. This move is directly tied to the production of the OA-1K Skyraider II, a next-generation light attack and reconnaissance aircraft designed for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). The expansion not only enhances L3Harris’s manufacturing capacity but also signals a broader transformation in military procurement, one that values cost-effectiveness, operational flexibility, and rapid deployment over traditional, high-cost fighter programs.
The Skyraider II program is rooted in the U.S. Special Operations Command’s (SOCOM) Armed Overwatch initiative, which seeks to fill critical gaps in close air support and armed reconnaissance. By leveraging proven commercial airframes and integrating advanced military technology, the program aims to deliver reliable, mission-ready Military-Aircraft at a fraction of the cost and time associated with bespoke military platforms. The Waco facility’s expansion thus reflects both an industrial strategy and a response to evolving military needs, aligning with global trends that emphasize distributed production and the growing role of special operations forces.
This article examines the origins of the Skyraider II program, the technical and operational features of the OA-1K, the Waco facility’s expanded capabilities, and the wider economic and strategic implications for the defense industry and regional development.
The OA-1K Skyraider II traces its origins to the Armed Overwatch program, launched in 2020 by SOCOM. The initiative responded to operational lessons from counterinsurgency campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan, where high-end fighter jets often proved too expensive and ill-suited for low-intensity, permissive environments. SOCOM’s need for a dedicated, rugged, and cost-effective platform led to a competitive selection process involving several aerospace firms.
In 2022, SOCOM awarded the Contracts to the L3Harris-Air Tractor team for their AT-802U Sky Warden, which would become the OA-1K Skyraider II. The aircraft is based on Air Tractor’s agricultural AT-802 platform, modified extensively with military-grade sensors, communications, and weapons systems. The selection emphasized operational ruggedness, reliability, and the ability to operate from short, unprepared runways, rather than speed or stealth.
The program’s acquisition strategy marked a departure from traditional military procurement. Rather than developing a new aircraft from scratch, SOCOM prioritized rapid fielding and cost control by adapting a proven commercial design. This approach aligns with U.S. Department of Defense efforts to accelerate capability delivery for specialized missions without incurring the high costs and delays of bespoke military aircraft development.
SOCOM’s Armed Overwatch competition evaluated multiple platforms, including those from Sierra Nevada and Textron, but the L3Harris-Air Tractor Partnerships stood out for its robust, low-maintenance airframe and global support network. The agricultural roots of the AT-802U provided inherent advantages for operations in austere environments, where logistics and maintenance can be challenging.
The OA-1K’s selection was formalized with a contract valued at up to $3 billion for 75 aircraft by 2029. The program’s development was further accelerated by leveraging Air Tractor’s existing production lines and L3Harris’s expertise in mission systems integration.
This strategy has proven successful in meeting urgent operational needs, allowing for quicker deployment and lower lifecycle costs compared to traditional fighter jets.
“The OA-1K Skyraider II exemplifies a shift toward rapid, cost-effective military procurement, leveraging commercial platforms for specialized missions.”
The Waco facility expansion transforms the site into a central hub for Skyraider II production, supporting both U.S. and anticipated international customers. L3Harris invested in a new hangar equipped with advanced Manufacturing tools, streamlined testing capabilities, and flexible production lines to accommodate evolving mission requirements.
The production process involves a multi-stage approach: Air Tractor manufactures the base airframe in Olney, Texas, which is then transported to L3Harris’s Tulsa, Oklahoma modification center for installation of armor, avionics, and mission systems. Final assembly and testing occur in Waco, where the facility’s skilled workforce and aerospace ecosystem enable efficient aircraft delivery.
The expansion has significant economic implications for Central Texas, creating high-skilled jobs and strengthening the region’s role in the national defense industrial base. Congressman Pete Sessions highlighted the innovation and economic benefits, emphasizing the facility’s contribution to both battlefield capabilities and local economic development.
Aircraft inductions at the expanded Waco facility began in summer 2025, with initial deliveries scheduled for autumn 2025. L3Harris has set monthly production targets to meet U.S. Air Force and international demands, with capacity to scale up as additional orders are secured.
The facility’s integration into Texas’s robust aerospace sector, home to major defense contractors and military installations, provides access to a skilled workforce and established supply chains. This regional synergy enhances production efficiency and supports long-term program sustainability.
Beyond direct employment, the expansion generates multiplier effects throughout the supply chain, benefiting subcontractors, service providers, and the broader local economy.
“The innovation occurring in Central Texas has global implications, advancing battlefield capabilities and strengthening our local economy.” — Congressman Pete Sessions
The OA-1K Skyraider II is a robust, versatile platform tailored for close air support, armed reconnaissance, and intelligence-gathering missions. Measuring 11.4 meters in length with an 18.06-meter wingspan, the aircraft’s large wing area provides excellent lift and low-speed maneuverability, crucial for loitering and precision strike operations.
Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F turboprop engine producing 1,600 horsepower, the OA-1K achieves a top speed of 213 knots and a stall speed of 91 knots at maximum gross weight. Its operational range exceeds 1,300 nautical miles, supported by 2,800 liters of internal fuel capacity, enabling extended missions without refueling.
The aircraft is equipped with ten external hardpoints for a wide array of guided and unguided munitions, including AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, and 70mm rockets. Modular sensor and Avionics systems provide real-time ISR capabilities, secure communications, and mission flexibility.
Survivability features include composite armor around critical components, self-sealing fuel tanks, and crashworthy crew seats. The cockpit is outfitted with digital displays and mission management systems for enhanced situational awareness.
The OA-1K’s modular design allows rapid reconfiguration for different missions, supporting a range of payloads and sensor packages. This flexibility is particularly valuable for special operations forces operating in remote or austere environments.
The aircraft’s rugged construction and proven airframe ensure reliability and ease of maintenance, critical for sustained operations far from established bases.
The L3Harris-Air Tractor team secured an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract with a ceiling of $3 billion, covering up to 75 aircraft, training systems, support equipment, and lifecycle logistics. The initial $170 million award funded six aircraft as part of the first production lot.
Despite the program’s cost-effectiveness, congressional budget pressures have led to adjustments in procurement timelines and quantities. For fiscal years 2025 and 2026, SOCOM reduced planned purchases, reflecting broader defense spending constraints.
L3Harris remains optimistic about the program’s financial outlook, citing strong international interest. By 2024, export approval had been secured for 12 countries, with additional approvals pending. International sales are expected to offset any reductions in U.S. procurement, maintaining production efficiency and supporting allied capabilities.
“International sales could offset domestic reductions, ensuring production line efficiency and supporting allied nation requirements.”
The Armed Overwatch program has faced scrutiny from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and congressional committees, which questioned the justification for a 75-aircraft fleet and called for more rigorous operational analysis. GAO recommended limiting procurement until SOCOM could better substantiate its requirements.
Congressional concerns also reflect shifting strategic priorities, with greater emphasis on high-end conflict scenarios involving peer competitors. Critics argue that the OA-1K’s survivability in contested environments is limited compared to advanced fighters, raising questions about its long-term relevance.
SOCOM leadership, including Lieutenant General Michael E. Conley, has defended the program, citing ongoing global instability and persistent demand for cost-effective close air support. The program has since adjusted its procurement targets, balancing immediate operational needs with long-term strategic considerations.
The OA-1K Skyraider II is positioned for significant international growth, as many countries seek affordable alternatives to high-end fighters for border security, counterinsurgency, and pilot training. The aircraft’s operating cost, reported at less than $1,000 per flight hour, makes it attractive for nations with limited defense budgets.
L3Harris’s international strategy includes securing export licenses for multiple countries and engaging in advanced negotiations with several potential buyers. The global light attack and reconnaissance aircraft market is projected to grow steadily, driven by rising defense spending and demand for versatile, low-cost platforms.
The Waco facility’s flexible production model enables L3Harris to efficiently fulfill both domestic and international orders, supporting business resilience and sustained regional economic impact.
“The OA-1K’s ruggedness and low operating costs are key selling points for international customers seeking reliable, versatile aircraft.”
The “Skyraider II” designation honors the legacy of the Douglas A-1 Skyraider, a legendary attack aircraft renowned for its durability and effectiveness in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The original Skyraider’s ability to deliver close air support from austere airstrips set a precedent for the OA-1K’s mission profile.
Air Force Special Operations Command formally adopted the Skyraider II name in 2025, underscoring the continuity of operational philosophy that values ruggedness, payload capacity, and adaptability over technological complexity.
This historical connection provides both symbolic and practical value, reinforcing the OA-1K’s role as a trusted workhorse for special operations forces and aligning current procurement with proven operational concepts.
The global defense aviation market is evolving, with increased demand for specialized, cost-effective platforms like the OA-1K. Light attack and reconnaissance aircraft are gaining traction, especially in regions where budget constraints preclude the acquisition of advanced fighters.
Industry trends favor modularity, rapid upgradeability, and dual-use capabilities, enabling platforms to adapt to changing mission requirements. The OA-1K’s commercial heritage and modular systems align well with these trends, positioning it for sustained relevance and market growth.
The competitive landscape includes both established defense contractors and new entrants, with collaborative partnerships, such as L3Harris and Air Tractor, offering a model for future military aviation programs.
The expansion of L3Harris’s Waco facility for OA-1K Skyraider II production is a strategic response to evolving military needs and industrial realities. By leveraging proven commercial platforms, advanced mission systems, and a flexible production model, L3Harris is well-positioned to meet both U.S. and international demand for cost-effective, versatile military aircraft.
As defense budgets tighten and operational requirements diversify, the Skyraider II program exemplifies a pragmatic approach to military aviation, one that balances legacy, innovation, and economic impact. The facility’s role in regional development and its alignment with global Market-Analysis suggest that Waco will remain a key player in the future of defense aerospace manufacturing.
What is the OA-1K Skyraider II?
Why did L3Harris expand its Waco facility?
What are the main advantages of the OA-1K Skyraider II?
How does the Skyraider II program impact the local economy?
Is the OA-1K available to international customers?
L3Harris Expands Waco Facility for USAF Skyraider II Production
Background and Program Origins
Armed Overwatch and the OA-1K Skyraider II
Facility Expansion and Production Capabilities
Production Timeline and Economic Impact
Aircraft Specifications and Mission Requirements
Survivability and Modularity
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Congressional Oversight and Budget Challenges
International Market Opportunities
Historical Context and Legacy
Market Analysis and Industry Trends
Conclusion
FAQ
The OA-1K Skyraider II is a light attack and reconnaissance aircraft developed by L3Harris and Air Tractor for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command, based on the AT-802U agricultural platform and modified with advanced military systems.
The expansion supports increased production of the Skyraider II for both U.S. and international customers, enabling efficient assembly, testing, and Delivery while contributing to regional economic growth.
The OA-1K offers ruggedness, low operating costs, modular payloads, and the ability to operate from short, unprepared runways, making it ideal for special operations and low-intensity conflict environments.
The facility expansion creates high-skilled jobs, strengthens the local supply chain, and positions Central Texas as a hub for defense aerospace manufacturing.
Yes, L3Harris has secured export approvals for multiple countries and is actively pursuing international sales to sustain production and meet global demand.
Sources
Photo Credit: L3Harris
Defense & Military
US Approves $3.8B Apache Helicopter Sale to Israel
The US approved a $3.8 billion Foreign Military Sale of 30 AH-64E Apache helicopters to Israel, with deliveries expected by 2030.
This article summarizes reporting by The Jerusalem Post and official US government announcements.
The United States State Department has officially approved a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Israel valued at approximately $3.8 billion. The package, which centers on the acquisition of 30 AH-64E Apache Guardian attack Helicopters, represents a significant modernization effort for the Israeli Air Force (IAF). According to reporting by The Jerusalem Post and official notifications released on January 31, 2026, the deal includes extensive support equipment, engines, and advanced targeting systems.
This approval is part of a broader arms package totaling over $6.5 billion, which also includes Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) and other ground support equipment. While the authorization signals continued US strategic support, defense officials have clarified that the delivery timeline is long-term, with initial arrivals not expected until the end of the decade.
The core of the approved sale involves 30 Boeing-made AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters. The “E” variant is the most advanced iteration of the attack helicopter, offering significant upgrades over Israel’s current fleet of AH-64A “Peten” and AH-64D “Saraf” models. According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) details summarized in recent reports, the package includes:
Israeli defense officials have previously identified this acquisition as critical for closing capability gaps. The AH-64E features improved speed, range, and the ability to integrate with unmanned aerial systems (UAS), a capability known as Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T).
Despite the high-profile announcement, this acquisition is not an immediate resupply for current operations. Industry analysts and defense officials note that the administrative process, requiring a signed Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA), means production slots will likely place initial deliveries around 2030. As noted in the research data, funding has been allocated for an initial tranche of roughly 12 helicopters, with the remainder subject to future budget decisions.
The approval process has generated friction within the US government. According to reports, the administration utilized emergency protocols or expedited procedures that bypassed standard congressional review periods. Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued a statement criticizing the move.
“This is yet another repudiation… of Congress’ Constitutional oversight role,” Meeks stated, noting the administration “refused to engage Congress on critical questions.”
Meeks indicated that he was informed of the decision only shortly before the public announcement, highlighting a rift regarding oversight of arms sales during the fragile ceasefire period in Gaza.
Regional Deterrence Architecture The Shift to Networked Warfare Sources: The Jerusalem Post
US Approves $3.8 Billion Sale of Advanced Apache Helicopters to Israel
Deal Specifics and Technical Capabilities
Timeline and Political Context
Delivery Estimates
Congressional Oversight Controversy
AirPro News Analysis
At AirPro News, we observe that this sale does not exist in a vacuum. The simultaneous approval of a $9 billion Patriot missile package for Saudi Arabia suggests a coordinated US strategy to fortify regional allies against Iranian influence. By upgrading Israel’s offensive rotary-wing capabilities while bolstering Saudi air defenses, the administration appears to be solidifying a “hub-and-spoke” security architecture in the Middle East.
The transition to the AH-64E is more than an engine upgrade; it is a shift toward networked warfare. The “E” model’s ability to control drones from the cockpit allows pilots to scout high-threat urban environments, like those encountered in Gaza, without exposing the manned aircraft to direct fire. This capability directly addresses the “line-of-sight” vulnerabilities that challenged older Apache models in recent conflicts.
Sources
Photo Credit: US Army
Defense & Military
Airbus and Spanish Air Force Celebrate 100 Years of Plus Ultra Flight
Airbus and the Spanish Air Force commemorate the centenary of the 1926 Plus Ultra South Atlantic flight with a 2026 deployment featuring A400M aircraft and aerobatic displays.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and official information from the Spanish Air and Space Force.
In January 2026, the aviation world turns its eyes to the South Atlantic to celebrate a centenary of pioneering spirit. According to an official announcement by Airbus, the manufacturer is joining forces with the Spanish Air and Space Force (Ejército del Aire y del Espacio) to honor the 100th anniversary of the “Plus Ultra” flight, the first aerial crossing of the South Atlantic using a single aircraft.
To commemorate the historic 1926 mission flown by the Dornier Do J Wal seaplane, a modern expeditionary force has been deployed. The tribute mission, dubbed the “Plus Ultra” Centenary Deployment, features two Airbus A400M Atlas transport aircraft and the renowned Patrulla Aspa helicopter aerobatic team. Retracing the footsteps of early aviators, this deployment highlights the dramatic evolution of aerospace technology over the last century.
As reported by Airbus, the event is not merely a ceremonial flyover but a complex logistical operation that underscores the strategic capabilities of modern military aircraft transport. The mission, running from late January through early February 2026, will see air shows and diplomatic events across Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, reinforcing the deep cultural and historical ties between Spain and South America.
The Spanish Air and Space Force has organized a schedule that mirrors the ambition of the original pioneers. According to mission details released in conjunction with the event, the deployment runs from January 24 to February 7, 2026. The fleet consists of two A400M Atlas aircraft from Wing 31 (Ala 31), based in Zaragoza, and six Eurocopter EC-120 Colibrí helicopters from the Patrulla Aspa (Wing 78).
While the 1926 flight required pre-positioning ships to supply fuel and parts, the 2026 mission demonstrates self-sufficient strategic projection. The A400M aircraft are serving as the backbone of the expedition, transporting the disassembled EC-120 helicopters and support personnel across the ocean. This capability allows the Patrulla Aspa to perform aerobatic displays thousands of miles from their home base.
Key events on the itinerary include:
Reports indicate that the A400M aircraft participating in the tour feature special commemorative livery, including the original registration of the “Plus Ultra” on the vertical stabilizer, visually linking the modern giants to their seaplane ancestor.
The original “Plus Ultra” mission remains a cornerstone of Spanish aviation history. Departing from Palos de la Frontera, Spain, on January 22, 1926, the crew set out to prove the viability of long-distance air travel between Europe and South America. The aircraft, a Dornier Do J Wal (“Whale”) flying boat, was powered by two 450 hp engines and navigated using celestial tools and radio direction finding. The crew, led by Commander Ramón Franco and Pilot Captain Julio Ruiz de Alda, along with Navigator Lieutenant Juan Manuel Durán and Mechanic Pablo Rada, faced a grueling journey. According to historical records cited in the centenary materials, the 10,270-kilometer (6,381-mile) route included stops in the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, and Brazil before reaching Buenos Aires on February 10, 1926.
“The journey was completed in 59 hours and 39 minutes of flying time. It was a massive media event of its era, comparable to the moon landing for the Spanish-speaking world.”
Historical summary of the 1926 flight
The success of the mission established the first air route between Spain and the Southern Cone. The original aircraft was eventually donated to Argentina and is currently preserved at the Luján Museum, serving as a tangible link to the past.
The contrast between the Dornier Do J Wal and the Airbus A400M illustrates the exponential growth in aviation capabilities. While the “Plus Ultra” was a marvel of its time, capable of carrying mail and a crew of four at roughly 145 km/h, the A400M represents the pinnacle of modern tactical transport.
Data provided by the Spanish Air Force and Airbus highlights these technical leaps:
Connecting Heritage to Modern Capability
This centenary celebration is more than a nostalgic look back; it is a strategic demonstration for Airbus and the Spanish Air Force. By deploying the Patrulla Aspa via the A400M, Spain is showcasing “expeditionary air power,” the ability to project soft power assets (like an aerobatic team) rapidly across transoceanic distances without relying on sea freight.
Furthermore, Airbus notes that the Dornier company is a “spiritual ancestor” to the modern consortium. The lineage of European aerospace cooperation is evident here: the Dornier Wal was a German design flown by a Spanish crew, foreshadowing the multi-national collaboration that defines Airbus today. The event successfully frames the A400M not just as a military asset, but as a diplomatic tool capable of bridging continents, much like the seaplanes of the 1920s.
From the Plus Ultra to the A400M: Airbus and Spanish Air Force Mark a Century of Transatlantic History
The 2026 Centenary Deployment
Strategic Logistics in Action
Historical Context: The 1926 “Plus Ultra” Flight
A Century of Engineering Evolution
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
Lockheed Martin Reports Record $194B Backlog and Strong Q4 2025 Results
Lockheed Martin posts $20.3B Q4 sales, $1.3B earnings, and a record $194B backlog, with strong 2026 guidance amid new regulatory challenges.
This article is based on an official press release from Lockheed Martin and additional financial data released January 29, 2026.
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) released its Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 financial results today, reporting figures that surpassed Wall Street expectations on both revenue and earnings. The defense giant announced a record-breaking backlog of $194 billion, a surge attributed to unprecedented global demand and the verified performance of its platforms in recent geopolitical conflicts.
For the quarter ended December 31, 2025, the company reported net sales of $20.3 billion, a 9% increase over the same period in 2024. Net earnings for the quarter reached $1.3 billion, or $5.80 per share, significantly outpacing the consensus estimate of approximately $5.75. The company also issued strong guidance for 2026, projecting net sales between $77.5 billion and $80.0 billion.
The company’s financial health showed robust improvement across key metrics, driven by broad-based growth in all four business segments. According to the official release, cash from operations in the fourth quarter tripled year-over-year to $3.2 billion.
For the full year of 2025, Lockheed Martin achieved total net sales of $75.0 billion, a 6% increase year-over-year, with free cash flow settling at $6.9 billion. The Aeronautics segment, the company’s largest division, saw sales grow by 6%, delivering 191 F-35 jets in 2025 compared to 110 in the previous year.
Management attributed the record backlog and sales growth to the “combat-proven performance” of its systems. Specifically, the company highlighted the role of its platforms in “Operation Absolute Resolve,” a U.S. military operation in Venezuela that took place earlier this month.
In a statement regarding the company’s operational impact, Lockheed Martin Chairman, President, and CEO Jim Taiclet noted the direct correlation between field performance and demand:
“2025 marked a year of unprecedented demand for Lockheed Martin capabilities… driven by combat-proven performance… demonstrated in 2026. During the U.S. military aircraft‘s recent Operation Absolute Resolve, F-35 and F-22 fighter jets… were decisive contributors.”
, Jim Taiclet, Chairman, President & CEO, Lockheed Martin
The Missiles and Fire Control segment emerged as the fastest-growing division, posting an 18% increase. This surge was driven by high demand for PAC-3 MSE interceptors and HIMARS systems, reflecting ongoing security needs in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. While the financial results were positive, the company acknowledged the shifting regulatory landscape following the January 7, 2026, Executive Order titled “Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting.” This order, signed by President Trump, introduces potential restrictions on dividends and stock buybacks for contractors deemed “underperforming” due to delays or cost overruns.
Despite this new layer of regulatory scrutiny, Lockheed Martin signaled confidence in its execution stability. The Board authorized an additional $2 billion for share repurchases, bringing the total authorization to approximately $9.1 billion, and raised the quarterly dividend by 5% to $3.45 per share.
Looking ahead, the company’s 2026 guidance anticipates continued growth:
Lockheed Martin’s latest report presents a dichotomy familiar to the current defense sector: record-breaking demand versus tightening government oversight. The $194 billion backlog provides a massive revenue safety net, yet the new Executive Order linking capital returns to operational performance introduces a “zero-defect” pressure on the factory floor.
While competitors like Northrop Grumman and RTX Corp face their own program-specific hurdles, Lockheed’s ability to meet F-35 delivery targets in 2025 places it in a favorable position relative to the new administration’s standards. However, with dividend payouts now theoretically revocable under the new EO if performance slips, we expect investors to scrutinize production schedules as closely as balance sheets in the coming quarters.
Lockheed Martin Reports Record $194 Billion Backlog Amid Strong Q4 2025 Results
Financial Performance Highlights
Fourth Quarter 2025 vs. Q4 2024
Operational Drivers and Geopolitical Context
Regulatory Headwinds and 2026 Outlook
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
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