<hi style=afpcap>The O-2 was developed from the Cessna 337 Skymaster to supplement and eventually replace the O-1 Bird Dog to perform the forward air controller role. The O-2 differed from the civilian variant as it featured an external communications installation along with underwing hardpoints. A total of 501 O-2As were ordered, with many being operated in Vietnam. Combat operations normally involved the carriage of marker flares and rockets. The Air Force also acquired a small number of O-2Bs which were dedicated to the psychological war role which lacked the underwing hard points, but was fitted with broadcasting equipment and a leaflet dispenser.</hi>
