USCG achieves IOC for C-27J
The US Coast Guard (USCG) Air Station Sacramento, California, has achieved initial operational capability (IOC) for the Alenia C-27J Spartan medium range surveillance aircraft, it was announced on 6 July.
Fourteen C-27Js are being integrated into the USCG’s operational fleet, with four aircraft delivered to date. Airworthiness certifications have been obtained for each aircraft and a logistics programme developed, including the acquisition of spare parts and training devices.
The C-27Js will provide medium-range air capability for the USCG’s search and rescue, disaster response, drug and migrant interdiction and maritime patrol missions.
The C-27Js are being outfitted with weather radar and communications equipment capable of supporting transport and other coast guard missions, including an integrated surface search radar, electro-optical/infrared sensors and a standardised Minotaur mission system to enhance their ability to detect, classify and identify maritime targets.
The remaining two C-27Js of Air Station Sacramento are scheduled to be delivered in 2017. The aircraft will replace four HC-130H Hercules long range surveillance aircraft which are being reassigned to the US Forest Service.
Air Station Clearwater, Florida, will receive the next operational C-27J. In total, it will receive six C-27Js.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
Ireland orders Thales towed array sonar
Ireland has a large Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) which extends 370km (200nm) offshore and contains 75% of the transatlantic subsea cables which carry $10 trillion in financial transactions daily. The country is investing to increase protection and surveillance of these waters.
-
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays
Hyundai and Hanwha recently unveiled advanced frigate and submarine designs while South Korea eyes new export markets and resolves internal rivalries
-
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.