C-130 modernization program passes key milestone

  • Published
  • By Laura McGowan
  • Aeronautical Systems Group Public Affairs
The first C-130 Avionics Modernization Program aircraft, designated H2, successfully completed its first flight Sept. 19 in San Antonio. The flight represented a key milestone in the most comprehensive C-130 avionics modernization effort to date.

The C-130 AMP program is managed by the Aeronautical Systems Center's 866th Aeronautical Systems Group here, and the Boeing H2 is the first C-130 to undergo trial installations on this aircraft.

The new avionics system features digital displays and the Boeing 737 commercial airliner's proven flight management system, providing navigation, safety and communication improvements to meet Communication Navigation Surveillance/Air Traffic Management requirements. The upgrade boosts C-130 capabilities as the aircraft continues its world-wide employment.

Col. Kevin Buckley, 866th Aeronautical Systems Group commander, said, "The successful first flight of the C-130 AMP would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Boeing and the U.S. government program office. I congratulate this team and anticipate that this partnership will continue to produce successes well into the future."