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Textron AirLand Scorpion Fighter Jet

Textron AirLand Scorpion Fighter Jet

Manufacturer: Textron AirLand
Category: Fighter Jets
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Generation 4th Gen (Light Attack / ISR)
Maximum Speed ~450 knots (~517 mph)
No. of Engines 2
Radar Range Depends on installed radar package

Full Specifications

General Information

Name	Textron AirLand Scorpion
Manufacturer	Textron AirLand
Country of Origin	United States
Type / Role	Light Attack / ISR / Trainer
Generation	4th Generation (Light Attack)
Status	Prototype / Not in mass production
First Flight	2013
Introduction / In Service Since	Not officially fielded
Number Built	2+ prototypes
Operators	None (demonstration only)

Dimensions & Structure

Length	~45 ft (13.7 m)
Wingspan	~47 ft (14.3 m)
Height	~14.4 ft (4.4 m)
Wing Area	~300 sq ft
Empty Weight	~11,800 lb
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	~21,250 lb
Internal Weapons Bay	Modular mission bay
External Hardpoints	6

Performance

Maximum Speed	~450 knots
Range	~2,400 km (1,491 mi)
Combat Radius	Variable with payload
Service Ceiling	~45,000 ft
Rate of Climb	~3,500 ft/min
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio	~0.56
G Limits	+6 / –3

Powerplant

Engine Type	Honeywell TFE731 Turbofan
No. of Engines	2
Thrust (each)	~4,000 lbf
Thrust Vectoring	No
Fuel Capacity	~5,500 lb

Armament

Gun	Optional external pod
Missiles (Air-to-Air)	AIM-9 (optional)
Missiles (Air-to-Ground)	AGM-114, guided rockets
Bombs	Laser-guided bombs
Hardpoints	6
Payload Capacity	~6,200 lb

Avionics & Systems

Radar	Optional mission package
Radar Range	Varies
Electronic Warfare (EW) System	Optional
Targeting System	EO/IR turret
Helmet Display	Compatible
Navigation	GPS/INS
Autopilot / AI Assistance	Digital autopilot
Communication	Secure datalink compatible

Stealth & Technology

Radar Cross Section (RCS)	Non-stealth
Stealth Features	Minimal
Infrared Signature Reduction	Standard
Sensor Fusion	Limited
Networking Capabilities	Yes

Variants

Special Export Versions

None

Operational History

Major Conflicts / Deployments	None
Notable Operators	None
Combat Proven?	No
Mission Types	ISR, CAS, Training, Maritime Patrol

Cost & Program

Unit Cost	Estimated lower than conventional fighters
Development Cost	Not publicly disclosed
Program Name	Textron AirLand Scorpion
Funding Countries	United States (private industry)

Additional Information

Upgrades Planned	Open-architecture enhancements
Future Replacement	None
Export Restrictions	Subject to U.S. regulations
Notable Achievements	Rapid development prototype
Competitors	FA-50, M-346FA, L-159 ALCA

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.4

Technology 7 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Firepower 6 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Extremely low operating and maintenance costs
Modular internal payload bay for ISR or weapons
Six external hardpoints for multi-role flexibility
Modern digital avionics with open architecture
Suitable for training, reconnaissance, and light attack

CONS

Subsonic speed limits high-end combat roles
Not equipped with stealth features
Limited weapon load compared to traditional fighters
No combat-proven record
Not widely adopted by major air forces

Textron Scorpion Light Attack Jet

The Textron AirLand Scorpion is a modern, multi-mission light attack and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft built to fill the affordability gap for nations seeking a capable yet cost-effective combat platform. Developed by Textron AirLand, a joint venture between Textron and AirLand Enterprises, the Scorpion was unveiled in 2013 as a rapid-development aircraft designed to perform mission sets traditionally dominated by costlier fighter jets.

Powered by two Honeywell turbofan engines, the Scorpion delivers an efficient subsonic performance profile with a maximum speed of around 450 knots. Its modular internal payload bay, along with six external hardpoints, enables the aircraft to carry an array of precision weapons, sensors, and mission packages, making it highly adaptable for border patrol, maritime surveillance, close air support, counterinsurgency, and training roles.

The aircraft’s large internal bay can house ISR sensors, communications suites, electronic surveillance equipment, or additional fuel, giving operators a configurable platform for various operational needs. The cockpit features modern digital avionics, touchscreen displays, and mission-management systems suitable for both pilot training and real-time operational missions.

Designed with low operating costs—estimated significantly lower than legacy fighters—the Scorpion appeals to air forces seeking high mission availability with reduced maintenance demands. Although not a stealth platform, it emphasizes payload flexibility, situational awareness, and affordability.

Its lightweight composite structure, open-architecture avionics, and modular design underscore its suitability for nations prioritizing cost control without sacrificing multi-role capability.

Textron Scorpion Light Attack Jet Price

The Textron Scorpion Light Attack Jet is positioned as a budget-friendly alternative for light attack and ISR missions. While Textron has not released an official unit cost, estimates place the aircraft in a significantly lower pricing bracket compared to traditional combat jets, particularly for training, border security, and surveillance missions.

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