ARINC Will Modify The Aircraft For Rockwell Collins

A major communication systems upgrade on U.S. Navy E-6B aircraft that are part of the Take Charge And Move Out (TACAMO) strategic communications relay mission and the Airborne Command Post (ABNCP) command and control missions will be performed by ARINC Engineering Services based in Annapolis, MD.

E-6B File Photo

Under a subcontract just received from Rockwell Collins, ARINC will install Rockwell's Block I avionics modifications on multiple Navy E-6B aircraft, effectively upgrading most of the advanced communications systems on board.

The Navy E-6B is designed to provide survivable and endurable command, control and communications in support of the President, Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and United States Strategic Command. Built on the Boeing 707 airframe, the E-6B has a range of 5,500 miles, accommodates 23 crew members, and is equipped with an Airborne Launch Control System capable of launching U.S. land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles. The U.S. Navy has a total fleet of sixteen E-6B aircraft deployed from Tinker AFB.

ARINC had previously completed upgrade work for Rockwell on the OC-135 and KC-135 aircraft. The company will perform the E-6B Block I work at its Aircraft Modification and Operations Facility in Oklahoma City, OK. Completion is expected to take about 26 months, with induction of the first aircraft scheduled for July 2011 and final delivery by September 2013.

Under the contract, ARINC will perform comprehensive removal, upgrading, and replacement of the receivers, transmitters, communications racks, and operator stations that support the aircraft's Communications Central and Battle Staff suites. The same Block I modifications will be made on an existing Mission Avionics Systems Trainer currently used at Tinker Air Force Base. Personnel from Rockwell Collins and the Navy customer, NAVAIR PMA-271, Patuxent River, MD, are expected to supervise the E-6B upgrade work at Oklahoma City.

ARINC recently launched the design and construction of a second hangar at its OKC facility, which will more than double available hangar space when it opens in June.

FMI: www.arinc.com