C-130 Airlift Squadron

The C-130 Airlift Squadron program, as detailed in Program Element (PE) 0401115F, is a key Air Force initiative focused on enhancing the operational effectiveness and longevity of the C-130H fleet. The primary objective of this program is to support the diverse mission requirements of the C-130H aircraft, which include tactical and inter-theater airlift, airdrop support, Arctic resupply, special operations, aeromedical evacuation, aerial spraying, firefighting, and humanitarian relief operations. The program is funded under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriation, specifically within Budget Activity 7, which targets operational systems development for fielded or production-approved systems.

The central line item within this program is the C-130H Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) Increment 2. The goal of AMP Increment 2 is to modernize the avionics and cockpit systems of up to 71 USAF-owned C-130H aircraft, including H3, H2.5, H2, and LC-130H variants. This modernization effort addresses aging and obsolete equipment by introducing digital flight management systems, improved navigation capabilities, and updated digital flight displays. The upgrades are designed to enhance combat capability, resolve Diminishing Manufacturing Source (DMS) issues, and ensure the fleet remains sustainable and cyber-resilient through a modular, open system architecture.

A significant objective of AMP Increment 2 is the integration of the MUOS/SATURN radio system, which is now included in the program. This radio upgrade is critical for addressing future DMS and integration challenges, while also incorporating advanced communication capabilities required for modern operations. The program also implements standards from the Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards (SCARS) initiative, ensuring that simulator systems transition away from end-of-life software and hardware to common, sustainable architectures.

The AMP Increment 2 program is currently in the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase. Activities include software development, system design, integration, developmental and operational testing, and risk reduction studies. The program also covers trial kit purchases and installations, technical order development and validation, spares and support equipment for trial kit installs, Systems Integration Laboratory (SIL) development, and the creation of aircrew and maintenance training systems and courseware. These efforts are intended to ensure a smooth transition to the upgraded systems and maintain high operational readiness.

A notable congressional add within this program is the Infrared Suppressor System Modification Testing. This initiative aims to complete testing of two infrared suppression systems for the C-130H, enhancing the aircraft's survivability against infrared-guided threats. The testing is conducted under a contract with Rolls Royce and is a targeted effort to address specific operational vulnerabilities identified by the Air Force.

The acquisition strategy for AMP Increment 2 relies on a Fixed-Price Incentive (Firm) contract structure, with L3Harris in Waco, TX serving as the primary contractor for the EMD phase. The program's schedule includes three phases of development testing from 2024 through mid-2026, culminating in Milestone C, which is now planned for June 2026 due to extended flight testing and required corrections. The program also includes Rapid Global Mobility (RGM) platform-related activities such as prototyping, capability development, planning analysis, and systems engineering. The budget provides for necessary civilian pay expenses to manage and execute these upgrades, ensuring the program is adequately staffed and supported throughout its development and implementation phases.