Article Posted on : - Jul 19, 2012

Beechcraft AT-6. A HBDC photo.

FARNBOROUGH, UK (BNS): Hawker Beechcraft Defense Company (HBDC) has begun low-rate initial production of its Beechcraft AT-6 light attack aircraft at the company's facilities in Wichita, Kan.

The company has initiated the low-rate production in response to significant indications of interest around the world for the AT-6.

The AT-6 is a multi-role, multi-mission aircraft system designed to meet the spectrum of needs for the light attack mission, the company said.

The aircraft is outfitted with Pratt and Whitney PTA 68D engine, CMC Esterline's mission modified Cockpit 4000, Lockheed Martin's A-10C-based mission system and L-3 WESCAM's MX-15Di sensor suite.

AT-6 has successfully demonstrated high-end net-centric and light attack capabilities and full compatibility with US and NATO Joint Terminal Attack Controller systems during the Joint Expeditionary Force Experiment 2010, the Air National Guard Operational Assessment, and capabilities demonstrations of precision guided weapons conducted between 2010 and 2012.

The AT-6 is currently under review as part of the US Air Force Afghanistan Light Air Support competition.