Ramon Lopez/WASHINGTON DC
The US Air Force is set to initiate a multi-billion dollar Lockheed Martin C-130X avionics modernisation programme (AMP), following recommendations by an Air Mobility Command C-130 study team. USAF leaders are also considering the study group's recommendations for a powerplant upgrade and acquisition of 150 new C-130J-30s.
The group, known as a Tiger Team, was formed to consider problems with the C-130 Hercules transport, including its reliability and maintainability and lack of global air transportation management (GATM) avionics.
With 44 versions of the aircraft operating with the USAF, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, the intention is to reduce to two basic standards, the upgraded C-130X and new C-130J.
The USAF purchased it first Hercules in the mid-1950s, and there are 233 C-130Es, 286 C-130Hs and 12 C-130Js in service. The oldest are over 35 years old, while the average age is about 20 years. USAF leaders have budgeted for modification of 360 C-130E/Hs and 150 special mission C-130s to the C-130X configuration in fiscal years 2000-13, but have yet to approve the replacement of the oldest C-130Es with 150 new C-130Js between now and FY2016. Despite political pressure from Lockheed Martin - which faces the prospect of having to slow the production line temporarily - the USAF does not plan to buy any more C-130Js until 2002/3.
The USAF plans a fast-track competitive acquisition and will issue a final request for proposals for the AMP in August, with selection of the prime contractor next March. Between 65 and 85 aircraft will be modified a year.
The AMP will provide the C-130 with a flight-management system likely to include dual mission computers, inertial navigation system improvements and the latest global positioning system receivers. Also included are multifunction flat panel displays, dual head-up displays and new autopilot.
The APN-241, which is on some C-130Hs and all C-130Js, or a similar radar will also be required, as will night vision goggle compatible lighting.
A terrain awareness warning system and a traffic-collision avoidance system are also planned. GATM communications requirements are still being refined, and the schedule for its implementation could lag the AMP by one or more years.
VHF datalink, SINCGARS, HF datalink, and satellite voice and datalink communications are envisioned.
Source: Flight International
