RC-135 Systems

RC-135 operational systems development and enhancement activities support design studies, engineering analysis, non-recurring engineering and other efforts associated with the integration and modification of the RC-135 programs and their specialized mission systems, both air and ground. Associated ground systems include RIVET JOINT Ground Data Processing Systems (GDPS), Distributed Mission Shelters (DMS), Mission Crew Training Systems (MCTS), Airborne Capabilities Extension System (ACES), and the Operational Flight Trainers (OFT, a.k.a. flight deck simulators). RC-135 funding also supports innovation activities to include studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes/demonstrations to accelerate planning for technology transition, technology insertion and future acquisition programs. Extensive utilization of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) based solutions allows rapid fielding of needed capabilities through upgrades and supports Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS)/Vanishing Vendor Items (VVI) logistics mitigation efforts. The results of these efforts provide for preliminary assessments of technical feasibility, operability, or military utility as well as specific engineering implementations for integration into the various systems baseline configurations. These activities are managed by the 645th Aeronautical Systems Group (645 AESG). The 645 AESG (a.k.a. BIG SAFARI) manages engineering, ground and support systems modifications, integration, flight testing, product assurance, acceptance testing, logistics, and training activities. Aircraft, sensor systems, and associated ground support system engineering planned for FY 2027 budget includes developmental planning, execution and support for the RC-135V/W RIVET JOINT Baselines 13, 14, and 15 (BL-13, BL-14, and BL-15), the RC-135U COMBAT SENT Baselines 6 and 15 (BL-6 and BL-15), and the RC-135S COBRA BALL BL-7, BL-14, and BL-15 configurations. COMBAT SENT has renumbered their baselines going forward to align with RIVET JOINT baseline numbering to take advantage of the baseline commonalities for technical manuals, training systems, contracting, and security certifications.