Science & Tech · Science & Environment · 1 hr ago
US Navy begins converting C-130J into E-130J nuclear communications aircraft
A C-130J-30 arrived at a Lockheed Martin facility in Georgia on October 15 to begin conversion into the Navy’s E-130J Phoenix II.
The transport aircraft will be fitted with specialized communications systems and survivability enhancements by Northrop Grumman.
The E-130J is intended to carry out the Navy’s TACAMO mission, relaying strategic instructions from national leaders to US nuclear forces, including ballistic missile submarines.
It is planned to replace the Navy’s E-6B Mercury fleet, which performs that communications role now.
The Navy previously used a Hercules aircraft for TACAMO duties from 1963 to 1993, but the new plane needs extensive engineering work to support its mission.
Integration and testing must show the modified aircraft meets Navy requirements before it can enter service.
A U.S. Navy C-130J-30 arrived at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Marietta, Georgia, on October 15 for conversion into the E-130J Phoenix II.
The aircraft is intended to replace the Navy’s E-6B Mercury fleet in the airborne nuclear communications role.
Northrop Grumman will integrate specialized communications equipment and survivability enhancements.
The aircraft will support the Navy’s TACAMO mission, relaying strategic instructions between national leadership and U.S. nuclear forces.
Integration and testing must be completed before the aircraft can enter operational service.
- Who
- The U.S. Navy is converting the aircraft, with Northrop Grumman integrating specialized equipment.
- What
- A C-130J-30 is being converted into the E-130J Phoenix II, an airborne nuclear communications aircraft.
- When
- It arrived at Lockheed Martin’s Marietta facility on October 15. The year is not stated in the article text.
- Where
- Lockheed Martin’s facility in Marietta, Georgia.
- Why
- The E-130J is intended to replace the Navy’s E-6B Mercury fleet and support strategic communications with U.S. nuclear forces.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Navy operated the EC-130Q for TACAMO duties, according to Lockheed Martin.
A C-130J-30 arrived at Lockheed Martin’s Marietta facility to begin the conversion process.
- Aircraft
- C-130J-30 Super Hercules
- New designation
- E-130J Phoenix II
- Arrival location
- Lockheed Martin facility, Marietta, Georgia
- Arrival date
- October 15
- Future role
- Replace the E-6B Mercury fleet in airborne strategic communications