|
|
A Modest Proposal
— Beechcraft AT-6B for the COIN / Escort role? |
|
Update 11 Dec 2008: CMC Electronics of Montreal announced a contract for
35 Cockpit 4000 IAS sets to Hawker Beechcraft for AT-6Bs.
|
|
If Canada is to follow the US Army’s example of Task Force ODIN to combat IED teams, the CF must have aircraft
to accompany the observation aircraft. We have suggested that this latter role could be filled
by a King Air. In TF ODIN, such aircraft are
accompanied by medium UAVs or attack helicopters. But
Canada has neither of these types in service. Steve Daly, CD suggests another in-service aircraft to perform the
interdiction role for a CF version of ODIN [1] plus as an escort for transport helicopters.
|
|
|
That in-service aircraft is the CT-156 Harvard II
trainer. Beechcraft now offers an armed version,
the AT-6B, with 6 wing pylons ( for fuel, gun pods, rockets and guided munitions) and a belly-mounted
electro-optical turret for day/night observation and targeting. This concept is meant to satisfy both the
conventional light attack role and FAC (forward air control) or spotter role. Several sources recommend the
AT-6B as a natural CF choice for the COIN role. But Steve Daly is suggesting something different – the strike
component for a force hunting IED teams.
|
|
|
Steve Daly suggests that this ‘CF-156B’ Harvard would make an ideal companion for
King Air-based observation aircraft. But the armed ‘CF-156B’ would also be a tactical
ISR asset in its own right. While lacking a King Air’s loiter time and radar, the Harvard
can use its own E/O sensor turret to detect IED emplacers on its own or even monitor the Pak-Afghan
border. In such roles, this ‘CF-156B’ becomes a manned UAV, as it were. So if this is just a manned
medium UAV, why bother? Availability and familiarity. Buying UAVs proved difficult but most CF
pilots are ‘current on type’.
|
|
|
See CF AT-6B for the COIN role for Steve Daly’s fuller rationale
and an exploration of other potential Canadian Forces roles for AT-6Bs.
|
|
[1] A CF version of TF ODIN might be Task Force Loki. In Norse mythology, Loki is blood-brother to Odin. Loki
can move freely between different realms (often accompanying Odin or Thor), has magical powers, and is a trickster
(being God of Mischief as well as God of Fire).
|
|
Steve Daly had another suggestion for the ‘CF-156B’. Aircraft could be based at Cold Lake and
Bagotville with the two CF-18 fighter squadrons. All staff officers could use the type to maintain their pilot
status. In turn, those officers provide a cadre of high-hour ‘CF-156B’ pilots committed to
deploy overseas when needed.
‘Canadianization’ would be simple. CT-156 systems and cockpit would be incorporated into the
otherwise stock AT-6B airframes. A mixed fleet is already proven. Australia flies the similar Pilatus PC-9s as
trainers, display aircraft, as well as in the FAC role (far right).