The
Inside Track Lockheed Martin Delivers ISR System for C-130J to U.S. Air Force An airborne signals intelligence system configured specifically for the newest C-130J aircraft has been delivered to the U.S. Air Force by Lockheed Martin. The system, which is part of the Senior Scout program that enables C-130 aircraft to be used for tactical signals intelligence and reconnaissance, underwent acceptance testing in December. Senior Scout is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) system built into a trailer-like container that can be rolled on and off C-130 aircraft (Figure 1). This ISR suite of equipment rapidly configures standard C-130 aircraft for tactical signals intelligence, Figure 1 providing capabilities that exploit, geo-locate and report communications intelligence and signals of interest to air and ground Senior Scout is an ISR system component commanders. built into a trailer-like container In addition to undergoing system upgrades, the latest Senior Scout shelter was enhanced to be structurally compatible with the that can be rolled on and off C-130 newest C-130J aircraft. System interfaces were updated, and the aircraft. shelter was equipped with the latest technology enhancements and improvements for maintenance access. The shelter also defines the design that will be used to upgrade the three legacy shelters over the next 24 months to ensure the entire Senior Scout fleet is C-130J compatible.
Sierra Nevada and Embraer Defense and Security (Embraer) have announced that the U.S. Air Force has selected the two companies to supply Light Air Support (LAS) aircraft to be used as part of the U.S. government’s partner building efforts in Afghanistan and other nations. The A-29 Super Tucano (Figure 2) will be used to conduct advanced flight training, aerial reconnaissance and light air support operations. As specified by the Air Force, SNC is being awarded a firm-fixed price delivery order 0001 contract in the amount of $355,126,541 for the Light Air Support (LAS) aircraft and associated support. The delivery order is being issued under the simultaneously awarded basic contract FA8637-12-D-6001,
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COTS Journal | January 2012
Figure 2
The A-29 Super Tucano was built specifically for counterinsurgency missions and is currently used by six air forces and is on order by others. an indefinite-delivery/indefinitequantity (IDIQ) contract. The initial demand is for 20 LAS aircraft together with ground training devices to support pilot training and support for all maintenance and supply requirements for the aircraft and associated support equipment. The LAS mission requires a non-developmental solution that provides the versatility, engagement and persistence
Common Ground Stations are deployed by the Army to assist commanders in the collection, analysis and distribution of ISR information gathered by airborne radar aircraft, UAVs and other sensors.
Army Contracts GD C4 Systems to Maintain and Update Common Ground Stations
Ground Stations (CGS) for the U.S. Army. General Dynamics will provide the spare parts, assemblies, engineering support and other logistics needed to keep the CGS fleet technically current and fully operational worldwide. In 1996, the Army awarded the original Common Ground Station system contract to General Dynamics, ordering 102 systems. The first Common Ground Station was delivered to the Army in 2000. In 2005, General Dynamics received the first contract to supply logistics and maintenance support for the fleet of Common Ground Stations. Common Ground Stations (Figure 3) are deployed by the Army to assist commanders in the collection, analysis and distribution of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance information gathered by airborne radar aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles and other sensors. Work in support of the Common Ground Station logistics and maintenance contract will be performed by General Dynamics employees located in Scottsdale, Ariz.
General Dynamics C4 Systems has been awarded a five-year, $47 million follow-on contract to update and maintain the operational readiness of all Common
General Dynamics C4 Systems Scottsdale, AZ. (480) 441-3033. [www.gdc4s.com].
Lockheed Martin Bethesda, MD. (301) 897-6000. [www.lockheedmartin.com].
Sierra Nevada and Embraer Tapped by Air Force for Light Air Support Mission
Figure 3
that the warfighter needs in a counterinsurgency environment, at a significantly lower cost than fighter jets. That aircraft must offer intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities; deliver a wide variety of munitions configurations, including precision guided munitions; and operate in extremely rugged terrain and austere conditions. Sierra Nevada Sparks, NV. Phone: (775) 331-0222 [www.sncorp.com].