C-130 Modifications

The C-130 Modifications program, managed by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), funds Special Operations-peculiar (SO-p) modifications and rapid fielding for various SOF models of the C-130 aircraft, as well as associated training systems. The goal is to address mission performance deficiencies, logistics challenges, and to integrate emerging technologies into the SOF C-130 fleet. These modifications are crucial for maintaining operational effectiveness and ensuring that SOF aircrews have access to the latest capabilities required for global missions in diverse and high-threat environments.

The program targets procurement of SO-p systems, including electronic warfare and survivability upgrades, advanced communications, improved situational awareness, enhanced training systems, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, weapons integration, and low-cost modifications. These enhancements are intended to correct deficiencies, address obsolescence, and incorporate critical safety changes, all of which are essential for supporting USSOCOM's unique operational requirements.

Low Cost Modifications (LCM) represent a significant portion of the C-130 Modifications budget. The LCM initiative focuses on minor modifications to MC-130H/J, AC-130J/U, and EC-130J aircraft, specifically targeting SO-peculiar equipment. Objectives include improving reliability and maintainability, correcting mission-critical deficiencies, and integrating mission enhancements. LCM activities include radar and avionics upgrades, sensor installations, intelligence collection and dissemination improvements, communications system enhancements, mechanical and electrical modifications, weapons integration, and the addition of door armor and frequency receivers. The LCM program is designated as a Major Capability Acquisition (MCA) at Milestone C, in accordance with DoD Directive 5135.02 and DoD Instruction 5000.85.

Simulator Block Upgrades (SBUD) are another key component of the program, aimed at modernizing and modifying C-130 aircrew and maintenance training devices. The SBUD initiative addresses issues of concurrency, obsolescence, and fidelity in training systems for the AC-130J and MC-130J weapon systems. The objective is to ensure that training devices accurately reflect the current operational configuration of aircraft, thereby supporting effective and realistic training for SOF personnel.

Initial Spares funding supports the procurement of spare parts necessary for the modified systems and equipment. This ensures that the upgraded C-130 fleet remains mission-ready and that maintenance can be performed efficiently, minimizing aircraft downtime and supporting sustained global operations.

Additional line items within the C-130 Modifications program include Prior Year Funding, which reflects resources allocated in previous fiscal years for ongoing and completed modification efforts. This includes Congressional Adds and Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) funding, which have provided targeted support for specific enhancements or urgent operational requirements.

In FY 2025, funding requests for C-130 Modifications transitioned to the AC/MC-130J line item, reflecting USSOCOM's current support for these aircraft variants. This transition ensures continued modernization and sustainment of the SOF C-130 fleet, with a focus on integrating advanced technologies and maintaining operational relevance in evolving threat environments.