USSOCOM eyes additional ISR-configured Dash 8s

Amid an extensive effort to modernise and recapitalise its aviation assets, the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is eyeing key procurement decisions including the possible acquisition of additional De Havilland Canada (DHC) “Dash 8” intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. The force currently operates a single specially configured aircraft of the type, known as the RO-6A Airborne Reconnaissance Low-Enhanced (ARL-E). Based on the DHC-8, the ARL-E features COMINT and IMINT sensors, including long- and short-range Ground and Dismounted Moving Target