The 492nd Special Operations Wing, in partnership with the 137th SOW, Air National Guard, welcomed the first missionized OA-1K Skyraider II earlier this month. The Skyraider II is a cost-effective, versatile aircraft that will provide close air support, armed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strike capabilities — all essential for operations outlined in the 2022 National Defense Strategy.

“The Skyraider II embodies the 492nd SOW’s relentless pursuit of innovation and adaptability in the face of evolving threats,” said Col. Patrick Wnetrzak, 492nd SOW commander. “Just as its namesake provided unmatched endurance and firepower in the most demanding missions, this modern platform extends our reach, enhances our precision, and ensures we remain the vanguard of special operations aviation.”

This initial aircraft will be used to train pilots and will exemplify Total Force Integration (TFI) between the 492nd SOW and the 137th SOW, which will foster synergy and efficiency in the new training unit. This partnership optimizes force structure and further enhances Air National Guard interoperability.

“The 137th SOW will play a crucial role as we align with the 492nd SOW in this TFI to address threats across the spectrum of conflict with the OA-1K Skyraider II and for the Armed Overwatch integrated program as a whole,” said Col. Shelby Dreyer, 137th SOW commander. “Our seasoned pilots will be part of training as initial cadre for the aircraft in partnership with the 492nd SOW, providing a strong level of continuity, experience and mission alignment.”  

The Skyraider II program reflects U.S Special Operations Command’s and Air Force Special Operations Command’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while adapting to the evolving landscape of strategic competition to remain ready and lethal. This aircraft provides a cost-effective solution for supporting SOF personnel in remote locations while offering a modular design that enables rapid capability upgrades for various missions.

“The 137 SOW is transitioning from a highly experienced mission set of ISR operations with proven mission success. The OA-1K Skyraider II expands what our Citizen Airmen can contribute to the joint force with capabilities that include close air support, precision strike and ISR,” said Dreyer.

The arrival of the Skyraider II at Will Rogers ANGB marks the beginning of a new chapter in the TFI concept for the 492nd and 137th SOW and their place in AFSOC's ongoing mission to provide unmatched airpower to special operations forces around the world.

“This is much more than an aircraft,” said Wnetrzak. “It is a commitment to those we support on the ground and a testament to our heritage of courage, ingenuity, and unwavering resolve.”