USAF Fairchild RC-26B - Condor - The OBSCURE Spy Plane - Low-poly 3D model

Perfect for use in games and simulation projects.

Based on the Fairchild Swearingen SA-227 Metroliner—a twin-engine turboprop originally designed for regional commuter service—the RC-26B Condor is a highly modified military surveillance platform used primarily by the U.S. Air National Guard. The Block 20 variant of the RC-26B, of which five were produced, is equipped with a sophisticated sensor suite housed in a stabilized turret mounted under the fuselage. This turret features both color electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) cameras, allowing for high-resolution day and night surveillance. These sensors provide full-motion video (FMV) that can be streamed in near real time to ground forces through two primary data transmission systems: the U.S. military’s Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver (ROVER), a handheld terminal widely used in the field, and the Dragoon data link, a system specifically integrated for the RC-26 platform to support seamless communication with command elements.

One of the RC-26B’s most valuable attributes is its rapid response capability, particularly for domestic operations. It is consistently available for federal and state-level missions, including natural disaster response, homeland security support, and law enforcement assistance. However, its primary mission remains focused on counter-drug operations. These aircraft are assigned to various National Guard units across the continental United States and rotate between bases, giving regional commanders flexible surveillance and reconnaissance assets that can be quickly deployed as needed.

Beyond their domestic utility, RC-26Bs—particularly upgraded Block 25R models—have been used extensively in overseas operations. In addition to their imaging capabilities, these aircraft are equipped with signals intelligence (SIGINT) gear that allows them to detect, geolocate, and intercept enemy communications. This capability proved vital in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where RC-26Bs provided tactical intelligence to both conventional and special operations units. The aircraft’s ability to silently observe and eavesdrop on insurgent communications made it a valuable asset for locating high-value targets and monitoring hostile movements.

From 2007 to 2013, the 745th Special Operations Squadron, one of the units operating the RC-26B abroad, conducted an extensive number of missions, flying approximately 46,000 flight hours over more than 10,000 sorties. This remarkable operational tempo highlighted the platform's endurance, utility, and versatility in both permissive and contested environments. Though originally intended for domestic and counter-drug roles, the RC-26B evolved into a key player in tactical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), bridging the gap between strategic assets like the RC-135 and front-line units in need of real-time situational awareness.

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