The US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has selected Rockwell Collins for the supply of its avionics equipment suite in support of the US Navy C-130T avionics obsolescence upgrade programme.
Under the contract, Rockwell Collins will deliver related equipment for installation on to 20 Lockheed Martin-built C-130T aircraft.
The avionics equipment suite will comprise multiscan hazard detection weather radar and new software-defined V/UHF radios, as well as other communication items.
Rockwell Collins Airborne Solutions vice president and general manager Dave Nieuwsma said that the programmes would provide some of the most advanced communication and navigation equipment for navy C-130 pilots, while assisting in mission completion.
The equipment suite will enable the C-130T aircraft to meet current and future requirements of the US Navy’s communication, navigation, surveillance/air traffic management (CNS/ATM) airspace.
"Our multiscan radar will provide them with unmatched capability in detecting and avoiding hazardous weather conditions," Nieuwsma added.
Designed to support transport missions, the C-130T multi-role, long-range, land-based tactical aircraft can be configured to perform ambulance or aerial delivery missions.
The aircraft is also capable of providing tactical transport of troops and cargo; it also supports missions including air-to-air refuelling, aerial delivery, and emergency re-supply into or medical evacuation from unimproved landing zones, as well as evacuation of personnel and key equipment.
Lockheed was recently awarded a contract to provide hardware and software-related support to carry out installation of flight management system for the US Navy’s C-130T logistics support aircraft, as part of the aircraft avionics upgrade programme.
Work under the contract is expected to begin in 2013.
