Dornier C-146A Wolfhound
Dornier / Sierra Nevada Corporation · United States · first flew 2011 · transport aircraft
The C-146A Wolfhound is the USAF Special Operations Command designation for the Dornier 328 turboprop, modified by Sierra Nevada Corporation for personnel transport in support of special operations forces. It provides a fast, medium-range capability for clandestine and low-profile missions.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboprop, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 21.29 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | T-tail |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- USAF AFSOC designation for the Dornier 328 turboprop in military fit
- Twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW119 turboprops with T-tail
- High-wing commuter-size aircraft with retractable undercarriage
Externally similar to a civil Dornier 328 commuter; the T-tail, high wing, twin turboprops, and retractable undercarriage distinguish it from the C-145A; military grey or white paint schemes and the absence of airline livery are the main external clues.
Specifications
- The Dornier C-146A Wolfhound has a length of 21.29 m (70 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 20.98 m (69 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 620 km/h (385 mph).
- Typical crew: 2+11.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
AFSOC selected the Dornier 328 platform in 2010 and Sierra Nevada Corporation integrated the mission systems. The C-146A entered service in 2011 and was assigned to the 524th Special Operations Squadron at Cannon AFB, New Mexico. The aircraft supports sensitive missions worldwide that require a discreet, commercially-common aircraft.
Variants
The base civil Dornier 328-100 is the parent platform; no military variants other than the C-146A are in service.
Where you'll see it
Operated by USAF AFSOC at Cannon AFB, New Mexico; deployed worldwide in support of special operations.
Related aircraft
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