The US Air National Guard should consider standardizing the use of the Air Tractor AT-802 as a versatile platform. This aircraft could serve multiple roles, such as firefighting and search and rescue during peacetime, as well as armed reconnaissance, close air support, or ground attack during wartime. Originally designed as a crop duster, the AT-802 has evolved into various variants, thanks to its tough and reliable airframe. Most notably, it has been adopted by SOCOM as the Skywarden for armed reconnaissance. Adopting this platform in a standard configuration would allow highly trained pilots to maintain valuable skills that are applicable both at home and in combat scenarios.

The ongoing forest fires underscore the potential value of having assets like the AT-802 in the Air National Guard’s arsenal. In the face of such natural disasters, the Guard could effectively deploy a fleet of these aircraft to “battle” the fires, providing a critical resource for the nation. Critics may argue that propeller-driven planes like the AT-802 are ineffective against near-peer adversaries in wartime, but these planes would still be invaluable in missions that don’t require advanced aircraft. Their rugged design and lower cost make them suitable for many military operations where high-tech solutions aren’t necessary.

As the focus increasingly shifts toward expensive next-generation aircraft, the AT-802 presents a practical solution for emergency missions at home and offers a cost-effective alternative for certain military roles. Its adoption could help stretch budgets while addressing various needs effectively.