DOD seeks to buy counter-drug patrol aircraft

The Pentagon is seeking congressional permission to shift $37 million to buy three counter-drug patrol aircraft, according to a Sept. 8 reprogramming request signed by Defense Department Comptroller Mike McCord.

"Funds are required to procure three DHC-8 (Q200) aircraft systems, currently being leased, to support the detection and monitoring (D&M) mission in the U.S. southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of responsibility," the request states, adding:

The department has been leasing aircraft for the D&M mission since FY 2000. The purchase of these aircraft will change the ownership of these three existing aircraft from contractor to the federal government. The aircraft will continue to be contractor operated. The purchase of these aircraft is expected to result in approximately $14.8 million a year in savings. The estimated cost of this new start effort is $37.0 million in FY 2016.

If approved by lawmakers, the money would be shifted from DOD's counter-drug activities line item to the Air Force's aircraft procurement account.