Rockwell OV-10 Bronco

The twin-boom aircraft built for observation and close support.

Overview

Rockwell United States ICAO: V10 1965–1986 Active $480,000 (1986)

The Rockwell OV-10 Bronco is a twin-turboprop light attack and observation aircraft developed for counterinsurgency and forward air control missions. Designed for short-field performance and visibility, it served in multiple conflicts. The aircraft combined reconnaissance with light strike capability.

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Garrett T76-G-420/421
Engine type
Turboprop
Power
2 × 1,040 shp · 776 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
2
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
44 ft 0 in  ·  13.41 m
Tail height
15 ft 1 in  ·  4.60 m
Fuselage diameter
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Wing span
40 ft 0 in  ·  12.19 m
Baggage volume
109 ft³  ·  3.1 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
14,400 lb  ·  6,550 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
3,700 lb  ·  1,700 kg
Fuel capacity
250 gal · 1,000 L · 800 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
250 kt  ·  288 mph  ·  463 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
45 kt  ·  52 mph  ·  83 km/h
Range
1,200 nm  ·  1,380 mi  ·  2,220 km
Fuel burn
1.98 nm/gal  ·  0.97 km/L
Ceiling
26,000 ft  ·  7,900 m
Rate of climb
2,650 ft/min  ·  13 m/s
Takeoff distance
2,800 ft  ·  850 m
Landing distance
1,250 ft  ·  380 m
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North American Rockwell OV-10B Bronco ‘F-AZKM’

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Operational Context

Rockwell OV-10 Bronco — light attack and observation aircraft

The OV-10 first flew in 1965 as part of a U.S. military requirement for a versatile counterinsurgency aircraft. Its twin-boom configuration and large canopy provided excellent visibility for observation and forward air control roles. The aircraft entered service during the Vietnam War.

Powered by two Garrett T76 turboprop engines producing approximately 715 shaft horsepower each, the Bronco cruises at around 240 knots (445 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 14,400 pounds (6,530 kg). The aircraft can carry rockets, bombs, and machine guns for light attack missions.

The OV-10 saw combat in Southeast Asia and later conflicts. Its ability to operate from short and austere airfields enhanced flexibility. Although retired from most frontline roles, it remains a notable example of specialized counterinsurgency aircraft design.