The North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco was a special aircraft for counter insurgency (COIN) combat, developed in response to a specification approved by the United States Navy, Air Force and Army that was issued at the end of 1963. It is a fixed-wing, turboprop-driven light attack and observation aircraft with mission capabilities that resemble that of a fast, long-range and ultra-heavy attack helicopter. It can carry three tons of external munitions and loiter for more than three hours. The OV-10 is praised for its versatility, redundancy, high visibility cockpit, rear cargo compartment and ease of maintenance. Primarily a light attack and forward air controller aircraft, it has also performed armed reconnaissance, gunfire spotting and low-level aerial photography among many other roles. The specification in 1963 was based on a need for a new type of “jungle fighting” versatile light attack and observation aircraft. Some requirements of the aircraft were tandem seating, twin engines, basic aerobatic ability, and a capability of carrying at least 1,100 kg of cargo, various armament and external weapons. Eleven proposals were submitted from different companies, and in August 1964, the North American Rockwell design was selected. Seven prototypes were produced, and on July 16, 1965, the first OV-10 took wing. The Bronco was developed with much fanfare as a counter insurgency warplane. The OV-10 is a light and nimble aircraft that can fly close support. FAC and light attack missions were also common duties for the Bronco. |
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