C-130J Minotaur options exercised
L3 Technologies Integrated Systems has had two contract options exercised by the US Coast Guard (USCG) for installation of the Minotaur mission system suite on two HC-130J Super Hercules long range surveillance aircraft, the USCG announced on 12 January.
Minotaur is being used on various platforms across the US Department of Defence and Homeland Security. Installation of the Minotaur system involves modifying the aircraft to incorporate the radar, sensors and C4ISTAR equipment that enable aircrew to collect and process surveillance information for transmission to shore and surface operators.
This work covers missionisation of CGNRs 2012 and 2013, which are currently in baseline production at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Marietta, Georgia.
The Minotaur system is installed on three HC-130Js; these three aircraft are among the seven HC-130Js operating out of Air Station Elizabeth City, North Carolina. The other four aircraft are operating with the legacy mission system.
Four additional aircraft are undergoing missionisation at Waco, of which two are receiving retrofits and the other two entered the process from their baseline configuration.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![UK Royal Navy orders more Remus UUVs]()
UK Royal Navy orders more Remus UUVs
HII’s Remus UUVs can be used for mine-countermeasure, harbour security and reconnaissance operations, as well as hydrographic surveys, environmental monitoring and debris field mapping.
-
![How AI tools can reduce fuel usage for maritime platforms]()
How AI tools can reduce fuel usage for maritime platforms
The broader use of algorithms to collect and analyse vessel data can better support navy chiefs and staff.
-
![South Korea approves more frigates plus SM-3 missiles]()
South Korea approves more frigates plus SM-3 missiles
South Korea’s six FFX Batch IV frigates are expected to be delivered by 2032 and will full retirement of remaining Pohang-class corvettes and Ulsan-class frigates, and possibly Gwanggaeto-class destroyers.
-
![China’s third aircraft carrier commences sea trials]()
China’s third aircraft carrier commences sea trials
Fujian, China’s latest aircraft carrier, has embarked on its inaugural sea trials following delays to its construction but featuring technological advancements that have marked a leap in the maritime capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.
-
![Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray completes testing]()
Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray completes testing
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation was selected in 2021 to build and test and Manta Ray unmanned underwater vehicle (UUVs). A second platform has been under development by PacMar Technologies.
