The RC-26B Condor represents a major proven combat capability for the Air National Guard (ANG). Its ability for
low and medium altitude Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance support has a proven record for mission versatility. The
attributes of the RC-26B have enabled military planners to transcend traditionally defined roles and missions dictated by
legacy manned ISR platform capabilities and resolve distance/time shortfalls. The current utilization of the RC-26B for Counterdrug, OCONUS, and natural disaster support is without an infrastructure that provides stability to Combatant Commanders, Domestic Civilian Support Agencies, and aircrew. By providing a foundation for support that establishes a basing plan congruent to the mission with the needs of the the supported commands and agencies, the ANG will provide concurrent and proportional modernization, increased long term recruiting/retention, along with a vast multi-mission capability. Counter Drug, day-night fire fighting, rapid Civil Support Team point-to-point response, Border Patrol, Global force projection into denied areas, and Homeland Security/National Response, are just a starting point for this aircraft. RC-26s are essential for ANG stability, dependability, and growth. A definitive basing plan would take all mission areas and domestic requirements into consideration and would be conducive to quick response for time sensitive tasking. A primary consideration is that the program be MAJCOM gained and that the school house for all training provide a template similar to current formal training units.