TACAMO Modernization

The TACAMO Modernization program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0605180N, is a critical Navy initiative focused on recapitalizing and modernizing the airborne command, control, and communications (C3) capabilities that link the United States National Command Authority (NCA) with U.S. strategic forces. The program's primary objective is to replace the aging E-6B Mercury fleet with the new E-130J platform, ensuring survivable, endurable, and reliable nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) in support of national deterrence and crisis management. This modernization effort is essential for maintaining a credible and resilient NC3 capability in the face of evolving threats and technological advancements.

The central project under this program element focuses on both air vehicle replacement and mission systems modernization. The goal is to transform modified C-130J-30 aircraft into E-130J TACAMO platforms through an Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract, awarded in FY 2025. The EMD phase encompasses the design, architecture, and integration of advanced, cyber-resilient communications systems. These systems are required to operate across a broad spectrum of radio frequencies, from very low frequency (VLF) to advanced extremely high frequency (AEHF), using multiple modulations, encryptions, and networks to maximize the likelihood of successful emergency message delivery to U.S. strategic forces.

A significant objective of the program is the development and integration of mission-critical hardware and infrastructure. This includes the modernization of legacy VLF High Power Transmit System components, such as power amplifiers and trailing wire antenna assemblies, to improve performance, reliability, and maintainability while reducing weight, volume, and life cycle costs. The program also includes the procurement of National Security Agency (NSA)-approved encryption devices, ultra high frequency (UHF) modems, and the development of top secret networks.

Additional infrastructure enhancements involve power generation systems, cooling, flight deck avionics, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) hardening, cyber hardening, and structural modifications to support the integration of new mission system equipment.

The FY 2026 budget request supports the procurement of startup materials for three C-130J-30 Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) System Demonstration Test Articles (SDTAs), which are essential for mission system integration and developmental testing. These SDTAs will be used to validate the integration of new systems and will eventually be retrofitted for operational fleet use. The program also funds the continuation of EMD contract activities, including the establishment and operation of government and contractor systems integration laboratories, contractor system test integration laboratories, and the development of required digital engineering and security infrastructure.

Program management and support activities are another key focus area, ensuring technical expertise is available for mission system development, VLF system modernization, airframe modification design, and mission systems integration. Funding is allocated for engineering, test, training, and logistics tasks necessary for technical and programmatic reviews, such as the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) and Critical Design Review (CDR). These reviews are critical milestones in the system development lifecycle, ensuring that all requirements are met and risks are mitigated before proceeding to production and deployment.

Test and evaluation efforts are planned to assess the development and design of laboratory facilities and to reduce risk prior to the start of aircraft testing. Integrated Test (IT1) activities will begin in FY 2026, focusing on validating the mission systems integration and ensuring the new E-130J platform meets operational requirements. The program also includes developmental support for digital engineering equipment, updates to meet security classification requirements, and training for personnel involved in testing and evaluation.

The acquisition strategy for the E-130J program is designed to expedite development, testing, and deployment by leveraging the existing C-130J-30 airframe and proven mission systems technology. The Navy plans to competitively procure up to three Engineering Development Models (EDMs), three System Demonstration Test Articles (SDTAs), and up to six Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) operational aircraft. This approach minimizes new development risks and accelerates the delivery of operationally relevant capabilities to the fleet, ensuring the continuity of the nation's airborne NC3 mission.