C-130J Program

The C-130J Program is a key Air Force initiative under Program Element PE 0401132F, focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of upgrades and enhancements for the C-130J medium-sized transport aircraft. The primary goal of this program is to ensure that the C-130J fleet, including its special mission variants (WC-130J, HC-130J, MC-130J, and AC-130J), remains capable of performing a wide range of tactical airlift and specialized operations in diverse mission environments. The program supports both the United States and international partners, with development costs shared among the USAF, USMC, USCG, Italy, Australia, Denmark, Canada, and Norway.

Within the program, RDT&E funding is provided for a series of capability enhancements, block upgrades, and deficiency corrections. These efforts are managed through processes such as the Cooperative Systems and Software Upgrade Requirements Management (COSSURM) and are documented in International Program Directives (IPDs). The objectives include the integration of common-core capabilities across all U.S. and partner variants, addressing capability gaps, and adapting emerging technologies. Specific focus areas include mission computer upgrades, avionics, electronic warfare systems, GPS, formation flight systems, and digital transformation initiatives.

A significant aspect of the program is the implementation of block upgrades and Capability Management Updates (CMUs), such as Block 8.1 and its subsequent refinements. These updates aim to improve operational effectiveness, enhance the human-machine interface, and ensure compliance with evolving operational and regulatory requirements. The project also funds test and evaluation activities to validate these upgrades, as well as program support costs and risk reduction studies.

Congressional adds have provided targeted funding for specialized initiatives, including non-recurring engineering for polar-capable aircraft, aerial delivery of fire suppression capabilities, and improvements to operational safety and effectiveness in degraded visual environments. These efforts address specific mission needs and expand the operational versatility of the C-130J fleet.

The program also includes communication modernization, which is being executed in two phases to meet the Secretary of the Air Force's Crypto Mandate and to modernize the C-130J's communication and defensive systems. Objectives include the development, integration, and testing of advanced radio and satellite communication systems such as the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS), SATURN, and Joint Range Extension Application Protocols (JREAP). These upgrades will provide secure, global line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight voice and data connectivity, leveraging modern satellite constellations and waveforms.

Communication modernization also encompasses the integration of new radio frequency components, modernization of UHF and HF radios, and updates to support equipment and technical data. The phased approach includes a federated system in phase one and a fully integrated system in phase two, ensuring compliance with FAA and National Security Agency mandates, such as frequency remapping and crypto-modernization. These upgrades are essential for maintaining interoperability, security, and mission effectiveness in joint and coalition operations.

The C-130J Program is structured to provide continuous operational system development for a fielded and widely deployed platform. The program's goals are to sustain and enhance the C-130J's capabilities through targeted RDT&E investments, international collaboration, and responsive adaptation to emerging mission requirements. The program also supports full financial auditability as required by law and aligns with broader Department of Defense efficiency initiatives.