AFSOC seeks shift in VTOL and amphibious capabilities
The Lockheed Martin MC-130J Commando II special operations aircraft forms the backbone of the AFSOC four-engined fleet. (Photo: USAF/Sgt Roldan Carlson)
AFSOC has an eye on the future with plans to test an amphibious MC-130J and acquire high-speed VTOL aircraft.
USAF Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is planning a flight demonstration of an amphibious version of its MC-130J Commando II aircraft before the end of 2022, its commander told reporters at the annual Air Force Association meeting in Washington on 20 September.
‘The most flexible platform we have is the MC-130J,’ said Lt Gen James Slife. ‘If there is a way we can use the MC-130J to gain an amphibious capability — something we are very interested in —for it us seems to make the most sense.’
Slife said AFSOC wants to conduct a flying demonstration of the Lockheed Martin aircraft
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities]()
UK vows to accelerate Lyra programme for Ukraine as defence industry eyes opportunities
Project Nightfall and Project Octopus both fall under the Lyra programme, with UK industry working to develop and deliver additional missiles and drones to help bolster Ukraine’s warfighting capabilities against Russia.
-
![How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense]()
How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense
Modern C-UAS solutions must detect threats early, integrate layered sensors, and deliver fast, scalable, adaptable defense against evolving drones.
-
![How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics]()
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.
-
![Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers]()
Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers
With some Eastern European countries already upgrading their helicopter fleets to incorporate Western technology, the region presents potential future opportunities for defence companies.
-
![UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines]()
UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines
The first of three E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, originally ordered in 2019, is now expected to be delivered to the RAF this year after multiple “difficulties”.
