The Joe Nall 2025 annual event showcased an RC powered OV-10 Bronco.
This is a Hangar 9 RC plane that was redone to look just like the OV-10 Bronco featured here.
The RC Plane owner in the videos says the plane can get about 12 minutes of flight. It’s also stunningly realistic in flight. At first glance, you’d be forgiven for mistaking it for a full-scale aircraft. For reference, here is a side to side of the RC plane and the actual plane.
Left Side: RC Powered OV-10 | Right Side: Actual OV-10
Youtube channel Plane Fun RC, features the RC Plane flying during the event.
Every now and then we receive emails of war tales and other experiences involving the OV-10. Here is one such account from Vietnam war veteran, Stanley Reeves:
Just saw the restoration video on AOPA. Never been close to a OV-10, but the engine sound is unmistakable. During Vietnam war while on a combat mission, my AC-130 gunship was shot down over NVA territory. I bailed out, landed, and hid under some fallen trees. I could hear the bad guys but it was nighttime and I guess they didn’t search too hard. Pulled out my radio and made contact with the FAC. He was flying an OV-10. He called in the fighters to lay down CBU’s to keep the enemy at bay. And he orchestrated the rescue effort the next morning. But that sound stayed overhead all night. It was like a security blanket.
In the dynamic world of aviation, where innovation meets tradition, the OV-10 Squadron has taken center stage with an exciting new venture—the SpaceX Starship Program. Tasked with range clearing and debris tracking, the squadron’s Aircraft 474, a storied Black Ponies combat veteran, has been assigned to this groundbreaking initiative. Let’s delve into the details of this significant development and explore how the OV-10 Squadron is making waves in the Texas and Florida skies.
SpaceX Starship Program
The OV-10 Squadron’s involvement in the Starship Program marks a pivotal moment in aerospace history. The program aims to push the boundaries of aviation technology, and the OV-10 Squadron is at the forefront of ensuring its success. The aircraft’s unique capabilities make it the perfect choice for range clearing and debris tracking, contributing to the safety and efficiency of the Starship Program’s operations.
Blue Air Training Partnership Adding another layer of excitement to this narrative is the recent purchase agreement between the OV-10 Squadron and Blue Air Training. Blue Air Training, a prominent player in the aviation training industry, recognizes the versatility and reliability of the OV-10 Broncos. This strategic partnership highlights the aircraft’s prowess in training scenarios, proving that the OV-10 is not only a combat veteran but also an invaluable asset in preparing the next generation of aviators.
The Broncos’ Adaptability to Blue Air Training What makes the OV-10 Broncos so well-suited for Blue Air Training? The answer lies in their design and performance. The Broncos boast a robust and adaptable platform, making them ideal for a wide range of training missions. From simulated combat scenarios to live-fire exercises, the OV-10’s versatility shines through, providing Blue Air Training with a reliable tool for honing the skills of aspiring pilots.
Nine Aircraft Sold, More to Come The OV-10 Squadron’s commitment to excellence doesn’t end with its involvement in the Starship Program and partnership with Blue Air Training. The squadron has sold nine OV-10D aircraft and is in the process of obtaining additional airframes for full restoration and future sale. This not only showcases the demand for OV-10 Broncos but also underlines their enduring appeal and potential for various aviation applications.
Looking Ahead As the OV-10 Squadron navigates this exciting chapter in history, it’s clear that the legacy of the Broncos is far from over. With the SpaceX Starship Program, Blue Air Training partnership, and ongoing efforts in aircraft restoration and sales, the OV-10 Squadron is poised for continued success. Keep an eye on the skies, for the OV-10 Broncos are soaring to new heights, redefining the narrative of aviation excellence. Stay tuned for updates on their journey and witness firsthand the remarkable contributions of the OV-10 Squadron in shaping the future of aerospace.
OV-10 Bronco Takeoff and Employing Live BDU-33 and Strafe on Razorback Range!
FLIR 380 footage of Blue Air Training conducting close air support. Providing additional support for our nation’s war fighters and allies conducted in Smokey Hill and Avon Park with OV-10s and A-90s. At the forefront of technology in CCAS (contract close air support), Blue Air Training utilizes EO, IR, and SWIR on our FLIR to provide target acquisition, positive identification, mark targets with IR, and track OpFor during realistic training scenarios. This footage can also be pushed over video datalink to our JTACs for real-time situational awareness. On the Range, in a MOA, or VFR airspace near your home base… the World is your OP!
Providing the highest quality Close Air Support (CAS) training to our nation’s Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) available!
TRAINING GROUND TEAMS AT THE TIP OF THE SPEAR
Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (#JTAC) are specially qualified service members who direct combat aircraft from a forward position while engaged in close air support, and offensive air support operations. JTACs embed with units on the frontline and have the incredible responsibility of calling in an air strike on target, on time. These highly trained warfighters go through intense physical, mental and technical training in order to withstand the demanding conditions of battle and provide their team with the firepower needed for continued success on the battlefield. Blue Air Training brings unprecedented Close Air Support training to these Special Warfare Operators to prepare them for battle. There are few things that can change the course of battle like a properly executed air strike. Blue Air Training
https://blueairtraining.com/ Blue Air Training provides the highest quality Close Air Support (CAS) training available — anywhere in the world. We ensure that every Operator is 100% combat-ready and elevates the standard of the US Armed Forces.
We received an interesting email from legendary Bronco historian Mike Verieramri with some findings. Thanks Mke!
“I note you have recently uncovered Cliff Acree’s name on ‘418 – attached a picture I have come across showing the original aircraft and names – thought it might be of interest. Given the context, it’s quite poignant.
Cliff is famous for VMO-2’s epic deployment to Desert Storm – not wishing to miss the war he flew the squadron right across the USA, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Middle East rather than wait for seaborne transport.
Apologies for the pause in comms. I’ve been deep in the intricacies of the German target tugs (fastest Broncos ever built) and trying to piece together the amazing story of the DoS aircraft fighting drug cartels in Columbia (reads like a Tom Clancy novel!). ‘418 was one of those aircraft if I understand it correctly? Looking at the picture on your site I hadn’t realized that they just painted over each layer. I don’t suppose anyone in your paint shop would have an FS595 reference for that blue? (apparently ‘Law Enforcement Blue’ is not an official description, just a name someone thought of).
Also, I’ve been talking to some Vietnam pilots and documenting the Combat Dragon II missions. Assembling the full Bronco story is proving fascinating but rather like trying to put together a jig-saw that has moving pictures and a lot of sky! This means that the rough lists etc I sent you already have much more information to add. My aim remains to produce a narrative that the whole Bronco community (over five decades worth) will recognize their part in and, hopefully, even if they know the aircraft well, find interesting….so no pressure then!”
The United States Navy has a longstanding tradition of using Forward Air Controllers (FAC) to coordinate air support during military operations. These personnel are trained to communicate with pilots in the air and guide them to their targets on the ground. However, the Navy’s Airborne FAC program has been under scrutiny in recent years, with some arguing that it is outdated and unnecessary in modern warfare. The program’s defenders argue that it is an essential component of naval operations and provides crucial support to ground forces.
Those who advocate for the continuation of the Airborne FAC program argue that it provides a level of support that cannot be replicated by other means. They argue that FACs provide critical intelligence on enemy positions and can direct air support in real-time, which can be the difference between success and failure on the battlefield. Moreover, FACs are able to operate in areas where ground-based controllers may not be able to, such as in mountainous terrain or over water.
Opponents of the program argue that advances in technology have made the Airborne FAC program obsolete. They point to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other airborne sensors that can provide real-time intelligence on enemy positions without putting personnel at risk. They also argue that the cost of training and equipping FACs could be better spent on other programs that are more in line with current military needs.
The debate over the Airborne FAC program is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. Ultimately, the decision to continue or discontinue the program will depend on a variety of factors, including the strategic priorities of the Navy, the effectiveness of alternative methods, and the cost-benefit analysis of maintaining the program. While tradition and ceremony are important considerations, they must be balanced against the needs of modern warfare and the realities of a changing global landscape.
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