The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has advised the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) to reconsider its plan to purchase 75 Armed Overwatch aircraft, specifically the AT-802U Sky Warden, by slowing down acquisition beginning in fiscal 2025. The Armed Overwatch program aims to deploy flexible fixed-wing aircraft for Air Force Special Operations Command in austere locations, focusing on counterterrorism operations and irregular warfare. The GAO’s report questioned SOCOM’s justification for the fleet size, citing unproven assumptions and a lack of consideration for mission changes and aircraft capabilities. It recommended a more thorough analysis of SOCOM’s needs and suggested only purchasing the minimum number of Sky Wardens required to maintain production and support operational testing until the analysis is complete. The Defense Department agreed with the GAO’s recommendations and will assess the force structure needed for the program.
