Members of the 4th Special Operations Squadron last month conducted the final flight of the AC-130H gunship Wicked Wanda at Hurlburt Field Fla., before its retirement, according to a base release. This airframe, tail number 6575, served 43 years, participating in nearly every conflict that United States has been in since the end of the Vietnam War, states the release. “[Wicked Wanda] was my aircraft during the Iran hostage crisis,” said retired CMSgt. Bill Walter, a former aerial gunner. “She had a real good combat history, I’m actually happy to see her retire honorably,” he said. The aircraft’s final flight from Hurlburt took place on Dec. 19. After its official retirement this year, Wicked Wanda will go in display at Hurlburt’s air park, according to the Dec. 29 release.
Competitors Not Picked for CCA Look Forward to Increment 2
April 25, 2024
While none of the major aircraft contractors were selected to develop the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, all three say they are seeking further autonomous aircraft work for the Navy, foreign partners, or in the classified arena, and maybe future versions of the CCA itself.