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
-
![European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026]()
European navies line up $105.8 billion in unawarded contracts for 2026
France, Germany and Italy lead the way on unawarded naval defence opportunities that could be awarded this year, but across Europe countries are ramping up their spending efforts to face geopolitical challenges.
-
![Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies]()
Spain’s F100 upgrade mirrors Aegis modernisation paths in allied navies
The Spanish Navy’s Alvaro de Bazan-class of air defence frigates will receive the latest Aegis Weapon System technology among other modernisations to extend the service life to 2045.
-
![UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns]()
UK’s Fleet Solid Support ship programme deemed on track despite steel supply concerns
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
-
![Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant]()
Raytheon unveils details of its proposal for the US Navy/NATO ESSM Next Significant Variant
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
