Coast Guard Takes Delivery Of First Upgraded HC-130J Aircraft

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Coast Guard accepted delivery of its first upgraded HC-130J long range surveillance maritime patrol aircraft on Feb. 29 in Greenville, S.C.

The new HC-130J model provides the Coast Guard capabilities that will greatly enhance its ability to perform its missions. Two essential features of the new modification are the nose-mounted forward-looking infrared (FLIR)/ electro optical (EO) sensor, and belly-mounted multi-mode radar (MMR). The 360-degree belly MMR is the first of its kind on a HC-130 aircraft.

During one of the aircraft's test flights the test team illustrated the interoperability of its features by selecting an automatic identification system (AIS) target on the mission system operator display that was approximately 22 miles from the aircraft. They then used the EO/IR sensor to immediately lock on the target. The EO/IR system maintained a lock on the target until the aircraft was close enough to make a positive identification.

Scott Yerecic, the Coast Guard flight test engineer said, "When you see the mission system in operation, you begin to get a better understanding of the huge potential this system has to enhance the Coast Guard's mission capabilities."

"This test illustrates the ability of the system to lessen the crew's workload and improve mission effectiveness," said Capt. Matt Sisson, aviation acquisition program manager.

The Coast Guard is purchasing a total of six new fully upgraded HC-130J aircraft. For more information on the Coast Guard's long range search aircraft solution, visit the Coast Guard Acquisition website at: http://www.uscg.mil/acquisition/lrs/.

Source: Coast Guard

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