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TAMPA, Florida—As part of its plan to field new transport aircraft, U.S. Special Operations Command wants to prioritize cost-effective operations, range and a broad sustainment enterprise to keep them in the air.
U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) in its fiscal 2027 budget request announced the Non-Standard Aviation Next (NSAv Next) program to buy three new aircraft next year, followed by two in 2028 and one in 2029. These are intended to replace the current C-146A Wolfhounds, modified Dornier 328 turboprops used to shuffle around special operators in austere areas. The budget states that the three aircraft are to be bought for about $55 million.
Col. Justin Bronder, program executive officer for fixed wing at SOCOM, said that the C-146, though battle proven, is “fairly constricted” with its short range. Additionally, the relatively unique aircraft has limited global backbone for support.
“So it was a successful model, but maybe not a very cost-effective one,” Bronder told reporters at the SOF Week event here.
SOCOM is finalizing requirements for NSAv Next as it builds out its acquisition program and has its eye on moving quickly, Bronder said.
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