ARIE EGOZI / TEL AVIV
The Turkish air force has increased the scope of its Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules avionics upgrade, having selected Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) as prime contractor last month. The deal is now worth $14 million, up from $8 million.
Seven aircraft will be fitted with a modular, low-cost avionics package developed by IAI's Lahav division for the C-130 and other tactical transports. The company beat Elbit Systems to the deal.
The package consists of a main mission computer and colour multifunction displays developed using the Israeli air force's Hercules operating experience, particularly with tactical missions. The upgrade also provides compatibility with global air traffic management requirements. IAI says the package can be extended to include high-speed datalinks to allow the transport to operate in free-flight areas.
Meanwhile, the Spanish air force is to proceed with a planned $20 million upgrade of Northrop F-5s using a Lahav package. The deal is expected to be signed shortly and be worth $30 million. The move follows the delivery of the first two prototypes to the Spanish air force in July. The work is performed with EADS Casa Military Aircraft and includes a structural package.
Lahav and the Ukrainian air force are promoting an Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros upgrade in Eastern Europe. Lahav and the Avirs facility in Ukraine have built a prototype, which made its first flight recently. MotorSich and Progress also participated in the upgrade, which includes fuselage and engine modifications in addition to new colour cockpit displays, mission computer, a virtual radar unit, hands-on-throttle and stick controls, and an updated navigation system.Source: Flight International
