End of fixed-wing ISR Turboprops in the US Army
Further details have emerged regarding ongoing US military cost-cutting efforts. The US Army plans to retire its remaining fixed-wing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) turboprop aircraft by the end of 2025. The divestment process began in 2022 to reallocate funding toward the High Accuracy Detection and Exploitation System (HADES).
Initially, it was expected that the MC-12S, RC-12X, and EO-5C fleets would remain in service until HADES became operational post-2027. However, that timeline has now shifted.
The HADES platform, based on the Bombardier Global 6500, will be designated ME-11B by the US Army. Two prototypes are currently undergoing testing, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2027. While early plans suggested acquiring 14 to 16 aircraft, this figure was later adjusted to “at least a dozen.” More recent statements from military and government officials now suggest a further reduction, possibly to as few as six aircraft.
As a temporary measure until HADES is fully operational, the Army intends to use contractor-operated ISR aircraft. Specific details—including the number of aircraft, their types, or the contractors involved—have not been disclosed.
The retirement of the Army’s legacy ISR fleet coincides with the US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) also retiring its U-28A and MC-12W aircraft. These developments have raised concerns about potential gaps in US ISR capabilities. However, it is important to note that many ISR functions have, in recent years, been shifted to space-based systems and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), making the true extent of any capability gap uncertain.
Currently, the following Army units still operate turboprop-powered ISR aircraft, but all are expected to cease operations by the end of 2025.
Credit photo: Andre Alders (Scramble Archive)