First USAF OA-1K Skyraider II write off
On 23 October 2025, an OA-1K Skyraider II, serial number 22-0009 and callsign “ZORRO75,” crash-landed just south of Tinker AFB (OK).
Although the serial number has not been officially confirmed, the aircraft was operating out of Will Rogers Air National Guard Base, where pilots are trained for the USAF Special Operations Command’s Armed Overwatch program. Both pilots have vacated the troubled aircraft safely.
Based on photographic evidence, the OA-1K is assessed to be a total loss. But this is not yet confirmed.
The Skyraider II, developed by L3Harris Technologies (prime integrator) in cooperation with Air Tractor Incorporation (airframe manufacturer), was officially accepted by Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) on 3 April 2025, when the first missionised aircraft was delivered to Hurlburt Field (FL). The unit at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base (OK) is responsible for pilot training.
Initially, US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) planned to procure 75 aircraft under the Armed Overwatch program, but budget constraints have reduced the order to 62. Initial operational capability (IOC) is targeted for around 2026, with full fleet delivery projected by 2029.
Credit photos: Redhome Aviation (on Facebook) and CWLemoine (on X)