HC/MC-130 Recap RDT&E

The Communication Modernization Project will allow the AC/HC/MC-130Js to meet the Secretary of the Air Force's Cryptographic Modernization Mandate requirements. The USAF initiated the Communications Modernization program to comply with Cryptographic Modernization 1 and 2 requirements, including, but not limited to, meeting Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) and VINSON/ANDVT Cryptographic Modernization (VACM) mandates, as well as delivering Second-generation Anti-jam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO (SATURN), Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS), Airborne Mission Network (AbMN) integration, and HF Modernization capabilities to resolve DMS issues. The Air Force intends to execute critical portions of AC/MC-130J 7.0/8.1 program as part of the Communications Modernization program. The remaining AC/MC-130J 7.0/8.1 capabilities (i.e., those not needed to execute Communications Modernization) will be installed on the AC and MC-130J under a future RDT&E program within this project. Communication Modernization funding supports innovation activities to include but are not limited to studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes/demonstrations to accelerate planning for technology transition, technology insertion and future acquisition programs. Project 675910, Communication Modernization may include initiation and employment of rapid acquisition authorities to respond to emerging threats and requirements as need. Resilient Positioning, Navigation, and Timing will provide reliable and accurate PNT solutions to ensure safe aerial navigation, delivery of precision fires, and support precise time coordination. This capability will also provide the foundation to counter emerging and continuously evolving electronic and cyber threats to PNT. R-PNT will integrate hardware and software to enable transit in GPS degraded/denied environments and support documented strategy requirements for uncompromised CSAR and SOF infil/exfil operations in contested environments. The chosen R-PNT solution will comply with the CSAF Capability Development Guidance Memorandum (CDGM), dated 4 Oct 2022. The R-PNT acquisition strategy involves a three phased approach. Phase 1 integrates the Resilient-Embedded GPS/INS (R-EGI) system. Phases 2 and 3 will upgrade the antenna suite and add open mission systems architecture.

HC/MC-130 Recapitalization replaces the aging USAF fleet of combat rescue HC-130P/N and special operations MC-130E/H/P/W and AC-130H/U/W aircraft for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Air Force Special Operation Forces, which are experiencing airworthiness, maintainability, and operational imitations. The primary effort to modernize CSAR capabilities on the HC-130J platform to keep the aircraft viable against emerging threats. The HC-130J Modernization Programs fund the program lifecycle from development to installation in three major thrust areas to include but not limited to Continuous Improvement Program (CIP), Development, and Government Test. RDT&E permits the initiation and employment of rapid acquisition authorities to respond to emerging threats and requirements as needed. CIP includes recurring software and hardware enhancements to address evolving requirements for Special Operations Forces and Personnel Recovery missions. These enhancements will be incorporated in both production and fielded aircraft. These enhancements will include, but are not limited to, parallel operational flight program [OFP] updates, integration and certification for Diminishing Manufacturing Sources Materiel Solutions [DMSMS], and other development activities as needed to keep the HC-130J programs effective against emerging threats. This 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. The HC-130J Modernization Development program funds engineering support, development, and test activities necessary to deliver specific capabilities in support of connectivity, survivability, and sustainment objectives. These activities may include, but are not limited to, development and integration of electronic warfare, airborne battle management, and an upgraded Link-16 capability. This program would include HC-130J platform support to resolve deficiency reports and meet mission requirements/mandates to maintain the fleet.