Beechcraft AT-6E Wolverine
Beechcraft (Textron Aviation Defense) · United States · first flew 2021 · fighter
The AT-6E Wolverine is Textron Aviation Defense's armed light-attack variant of the T-6 Texan II, designed for close air support, armed ISR, and counter-insurgency operations from austere airfields. It competes in the USAF's OA-X / light attack experiment alongside the Sierra Nevada/Embraer A-29.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turboprop, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 10.16 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Light attack turboprop derived from the T-6 Texan II trainer with six underwing hardpoints
- Single PT6A turboprop in the nose with a four-blade propeller
- Tandem two-seat cockpit with clear bubble canopy
The AT-6E is visually almost identical to the T-6 Texan II trainer. Distinguish it by the six underwing hardpoints (the trainer has two), the external fuel tanks or weapons loads, and the EO/IR turret typically carried under the nose or on an inboard pylon. The bubble canopy, single turboprop, and low-wing planform are shared across the T-6/AT-6 family.
Specifications
- The Beechcraft AT-6E Wolverine has a length of 10.16 m (33 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.19 m (33 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 519 km/h (322 mph).
- Typical crew: 1–2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Beechcraft (later Textron Aviation Defense) developed the AT-6 family from the T-6 Texan II trainer platform, recognising demand for an affordable turboprop light attacker for partner-nation air forces. The AT-6E is an updated variant submitted for USAF evaluation and export. It incorporates a full mission system, armament management, and helmet-mounted cueing.
Variants
Earlier AT-6B and AT-6C designations preceded the E. The AT-6E adds improved avionics, enhanced armament options including precision-guided munitions, and survivability features. The baseline T-6A/B/C trainers share the airframe without weapons provisions.
Where you'll see it
The AT-6 has been demonstrated to the USAF under the OA-X light attack experiment and marketed aggressively for export to partner nations seeking affordable fixed-wing CAS capability. It has not yet entered large-scale US service, but several foreign customers have expressed interest.
Related aircraft
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- Korea Aerospace Industries KF-21 Boramae
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- Baykar Bayraktar Kızılelma
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