The U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Systems Command has announced the selection of the E-130J as the new Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission aircraft, set to replace the long-serving E-6B Mercury fleet. This development marks a significant step in modernizing U.S. strategic deterrence capabilities.
U.S. Navy TACAMO Program
The E-130J will replace the E-6B Mercury, which has been in service for 37 years, as part of the E-XX program. This program seeks to integrate advanced systems into the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. TACAMO missions are critical as they connect the U.S. President, Secretary of Defense, and Strategic Command with ballistic missile naval forces in times of crisis.
The new E-130J, previously designated as the E-XX, derives its name from several factors: the “E” represents special electronic installation, “130” refers to its origin in the EC-130, and the “J” indicates the modified C-130J-30 Super Hercules platform. While the technical designation has been approved by the U.S. Air Force, a common name, similar to “Mercury” for its predecessor, has yet to be selected.
Acquisition and Next Steps
The Airborne Strategic Command, Control, and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) is leading this acquisition as part of the TACAMO Recapitalization Program. The bidding process, which closed in April 2024, aims to find a prime contractor to integrate systems like Collins Aerospace’s very low-frequency (VLF) communication subsystem into the C-130J-30 aircraft. The contract is expected to be awarded in January 2025.
The E-130J will be operated by the Strategic Communications Wing 1 (SCW-1), based at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. This includes the “Ironmen” of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 3 (VQ-3), the “Shadows” of VQ-4, and the “Roughnecks” of VQ-7.
E-6B Mercury
The E-6B Mercury, in service since 1986, has been a vital component of the U.S. nuclear deterrence system. Its primary mission has been to relay critical communications and serve as an airborne strategic command post. In its TACAMO role, it ensures the transmission of orders from U.S. leaders to naval ballistic missile forces.
Notably, the Mercury can communicate across virtually all radio frequency bands, using commercial satellites and secure VOIP systems.
The E-6B also performs Looking Glass missions, which enable the oversight and potential execution of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launches through an airborne launch control system. Additionally, it can communicate with submarines via an 8,000-meter (26,000-foot) cable antenna and transmit ICBM launch orders, while carrying out command, control, and communications (C3) operations with theater forces or strategic bombers in Global Strike missions. With the arrival of the E-130J, the E-6B is expected to conclude its operational cycle in the coming years.
Future of U.S. Nuclear Deterrence
“With the introduction of the E-130J, the U.S. Navy is poised to continue its legacy of strategic leadership and ensure responsiveness during times of crisis,” said Captain Britt Windeler, Commander of SCW-1. “This transition not only guarantees the survival of our strategic communications capabilities but also reinforces our nuclear deterrence for decades to come.”
The development of the E-130J ensures that the U.S. will maintain robust and reliable control over its nuclear forces as the E-6B approaches the end of its service life.
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