Wed, Mar 30, 2011
Flexible Airlifter Is A Combination Tanker And Cargo
Hauler
Lockheed Martin rolled out the first aircraft in a new fleet of
MC-130J Combat Shadow IIs for the U.S. Air Force’s Special
Operations Command (AFSOC) during a ceremony in Marietta, GA,
Tuesday.
Lt. Gen. Donald C. Wurster, commander, Air Force Special
Operations Command, was the keynote speaker at the event.
“The MC-130J is one of the most versatile tactical
airlifters in the world. Its multi-mission capabilities will
increase the combat performance of special operations forces
worldwide,” Wurster said. “The MC-130J’s advanced
sensors, expanded avionics and universal aerial refueling
capability will enable the highly skilled Airmen of AFSOC to
operate under difficult conditions with unmatched speed and
capability."
Lockheed Martin is contracted to build 15 MC 130Js to begin
replacing the current aging fleet. The U.S. Air Force is authorized
to acquire up to 20 MC-130Js against an approved requirement for
37.
“As the most flexible airlifter in the world, this new
Combat Shadow configuration demonstrates the unmatched platform
capability of the Super Hercules,” said Lorraine Martin,
Lockheed Martin vice president for C-130 programs. “As recent
events around the world have yet again shown us, the C-130 is the
world’s first responder. The C-130J is performing today and
will be ready for whatever the future holds.”
The new aircraft is based on a KC-130J tanker baseline and will
have the Enhanced Service Life Wing, Enhanced Cargo Handling
System, a Universal Aerial Refueling Receptacle Slipway
Installation (boom refueling receptacle), more powerful electrical
generators, an electro-optical/infrared sensor, a combat systems
operator station on the flight deck and provisions for the large
aircraft infrared countermeasures system. In-line production of
this configuration reduces cost and risk, and meets the required
2012 Initial Operational Capability.
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