With the production run of the Next DDS Attack Aircraft, otherwise known as the A-12, coming to an end next year (5 have been added to the outstanding order) attention has now been turned to the next step. Work has begun on a major upgrade for the light attack aircraft known as NDAA 2.0.
The NDAA 2.0 will be applied to all 100 A-12s in service plus there will be some new build. Key to the upgrade will be an improved turbofan with 15% more power but with reduced infrared signature. The airframe will be slightly lengthened which, together with a reorganisation of internal systems, will allow for larger fuel tanks. Range should be increased by around 17%. The attack and navigation systems will also be upgraded with improved data linking and signal processing.
NDAA 2.0 is expected to begin flight testing next year. One of the prototypes has already been modified.
