USCG releases RFI for MSS+ programme
The US Coast Guard (USCG) has released a request for information for installation of the Minotaur mission system suite (MSS+) and a block upgrade for its HC-130J aircraft, the USCG announced on 10 September.
The HC-130J block upgrade 8.1 retrofit programme will increase overall HC-130J weapon system operational effectiveness; enhance aircraft navigational accuracy and aircrew situational awareness; reduce HC-130J systems and parts obsolescence; and ensure continued access to global airspace via aviation mandate compliance.
Minotaur is a government-owned and government–operated mission system architecture that integrates imagery and data from multiple aircraft sensor streams, allowing operators to track targets and transmit information to other platforms and units.
The USCG plans to modify seven baseline aircraft with MSS+ and the block upgrade, as well as implementing the upgrade on up to 15 missionised aircraft.The USCG currently has 15 HC-130J aircraft in either operational use or active production.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement]()
Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement
As advances in uncrewed technology increasingly shape Australia’s maritime future, Shephard spoke with the country’s head of navy capability and a Leidos Australia executive about the operational advantages behind the shift.
-
![What does Saab’s operations shake-up mean for its new ‘Naval’ chapter?]()
What does Saab’s operations shake-up mean for its new ‘Naval’ chapter?
Saab’s merger of its Kockums and Naval Combat Systems divisions into a single business area called Naval, effective 1 April 2026, aims to enhance efficiency, innovation and competitive positioning in the naval sector.
-
![Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions]()
Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions
Amphibious operations are a very unique type of military operation, and global defence industries are developing new solutions to enhance capabilities and efficiency.
-
![US Navy to acquire and test uncrewed surface vessel prototypes by the end of FY2026]()
US Navy to acquire and test uncrewed surface vessel prototypes by the end of FY2026
The new autonomous surface vessels are planned to be operationally fielded in FY2027, following the completion of on-water trials.
