The 137th Special Operations Wing held a welcome ceremony for the arrival of OA-1K Skyraider II aircraft to Will Rogers Air National Guard Base, June 7, 2025, Oklahoma City. 

The Skyraider II is a cost-effective, versatile aircraft that will provide essential support for operations outlined in the 2025 Interim National Defense Strategy. WRANGB now serves as the home for the Skyraider II’s formal training unit under the 492nd Special Operations Wing. 

“Seamless integration with total force partners has been the standard for the 137th Special Operations Wing,” said Col. Shelby Dreyer, 137th SOW commander. “We are continuing that legacy as we usher in this Total Force Initiative alongside the 492nd Special Operations Wing to train for the multi-capable mission of the OA-1K Skyraider II.”

The ceremony introduced the Skyraiders II’s capabilities and mission set to 137 SOW Citizen Airmen. The Skyraider II is a new cost-effective crewed aircraft that supports geographically isolated Special Operations personnel in austere locations.

“The 137th SOW continues to build and preserve a force where human performance is our critical advantage – leaning into the advanced training and resource management that supports our preparedness in every environment, against every adversary,” said Dreyer. “With the partnership of our wings, this is the right time. Oklahoma is the right place.”