The Air Force is looking to modify Afghan air force Cessna C-208 light airlifters with specialized equipment for cargo airdrop, according to a solicitation to industry. Under the Afghanistan C-208 Airdrop Program, contractors would initially ferry two Afghan C-208s from Shindand AB, Afghanistan, for testing of the airdrop modifications in the United States, according to Air Force Material Command’s request for information, posted on Dec. 3 at the Federal Business Opportunities website. Modifications would include fitting the aircraft with midair-operable cargo doors, pallet floor rollers, parachute static lines, slipstream fairings, airdrop signal lights, and a cockpit operator’s panel, states the RFI. Upon successful completion of flight testing at Eglin AFB, Fla., and Peterson AFB, Colo., the contractor would retrofit the AAF’s Caravan fleet with the airdrop kits. Service officials would like industry feedback by Dec. 17.
When Airmen eject, the mission is clear: America leaves no warrior behind. Airmen are trained to survive, evade, resist, and escape the enemy, and everyone from ground crew to rescue personnel and commanders are committed to doing everything necessary—and possible—to bring downed Airmen home.