USCG receives new Minotaur-equipped HC-130J
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has taken delivery of a new HC-130J equipped with the Minotaur mission system suite.
This is the first HC-130J outfitted with the Minotaur system from baseline configuration.
The Minotaur mission system integrates imagery and data from sensors, radar, C4I and ISR equipment that allows aircrew to track targets and transmit information to shore and surface units.
The aircraft will join other HC-130Js operating out of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, including the Minotaur prototype.
Four HC-130Js are currently undergoing the integration process of which three are undergoing retrofits from the legacy system; the fourth entered the integration process directly after production.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
Eurosatory 2026: Schiebel’s frigate-first strategy indicates a shift in UAV competition
Schiebel is pursuing opportunities in the UK and France while leveraging its integration with Naval Group’s FDI frigate programme to create new naval business across Europe.
-
US weighs offshore warship production due to industrial limits
A Pentagon push to procure warships from Japanese and South Korean shipyards could reshape allied naval industrial strategy, but critics warn the approach risks hollowing out the domestic base Washington is seeking to restore.
-
Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA
The accelerated delivery of the final Flight IIA destroyer, USS Patrick Gallagher, showcases the payoff of years of workforce investment and process reform at Bath Iron Works, with the lessons feeding into Flight III production.