Elbit to upgrade US Navy's C-26 aircraft

Elbit Systems of America's M7 Aerospace subsidiary has received a $7.5 million Firm, Fixed Price contract from the US Navy to perform modifications on US Naval Test Pilot School's (USNTPS) C-26 aircraft, it announced on 9 May.

Under the contract, the company has to install an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) upgrade and a Leonardo Electronics (formally Finmeccanica) Vixen 500E AESA radar on the C-26. The Vixen 500E AESA radar, which meets the USNTPS requirements for training and supportability, and Navy Test Wing Atlantic (NTWL) Open Architecture (OA) flying test bed requirements, will replace the existing radar.

The new radar combines fire control, surveillance and reconnaissance search capabilities, as well as prosecution, tracking and acquisition. The design is intended for installation in trainers and modified business aircraft, fighter lead-ins and small fast-jets.

Chris Hickey, vice president, sustainment and support, Elbit Systems of America, said: ‘Partnering with our military customers to develop a highly focused modification, repair and overhaul plan allows us to deliver an affordable, high quality solution that meets military requirements and keeps them in the fight. This modification aligns with our strategy to extend the life and highlight the value of our C-26 franchise.’

Elbit Systems will complete the upgrades in San Antonio, Texas by September 2016.