Collins Aerospace to explore improvements to US nuclear warfare communications platform
The TACAMO mission is currently performed by the E-6B Mercury but a replacement platform is needed. (Photo: Collins Aerospace)
VLF equipment will be integrated on a C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft under USN efforts to modernise its TACAMO communications system.
Collins Aerospace has obtained the first award in a series of test contracts under the E-6B Recapitalization Program (E-XX) to improve the USN Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) platform that hosts nuclear warfare-survivable communications links.
A sole-source risk-reduction engineering contract, worth an undisclosed amount, will see Collins Aerospace develop a Very Low Frequency (VLF) system for the E-XX programme. This risk-reduction effort is to meet SWaP-C requirements for VLF system integration into a C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft, as part of initial platform testing.
Airborne VLF system modernisation supports Airborne Strategic Command, Control, and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) capability requirements, Collins Aerospace noted in a 4 April statement.
It added that the new VLF system will feature ‘enhanced security measures' to address unspecified 'advanced and emerging threats’.
TACAMO is currently based in the ageing E-6B Mercury airborne command post, which Collins Aerospace supports.
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