The United States Navy (US Navy) has confirmed that construction has begun on the first E-130J TACAMO aircraft. This program, led by Lockheed Martin, marks a significant step toward modernizing the strategic deterrence capabilities of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Selected as the future replacement for the aging E-6B Mercury fleet for the Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission, the E-130J (based on the C-130J Super Hercules) will ensure advanced operational readiness. The program plans to acquire three units, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in 2026 for modification into an Engineering Development Model (EDM).
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 initiative aims to integrate advanced systems into the C-130J Super Hercules airframe. TACAMO missions are vital, providing secure communication links between the U.S. President, Secretary of Defense, and Strategic Command with ballistic missile submarine forces during crises.
The E-130J, formerly designated as E-XX, derives its name from a combination of factors: “E” represents specialized electronic systems, “130” reflects its heritage in the EC-130, and “J” refers to the modified C-130J-30 Super Hercules platform. Although its technical designation is finalized, a common name—akin to “Mercury” for its predecessor—has yet to be chosen.
Acquisition and Next Steps
The Airborne Strategic Command, Control, and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) is overseeing the TACAMO recapitalization effort. The solicitation process, which concluded in April 2024, seeks a prime contractor to integrate systems such as the Collins Aerospace Very Low Frequency (VLF) communications subsystem into the C-130J-30 aircraft. The contract award is expected in January 2025.
The E-130J will be operated by the Strategic Communications Wing 1 (SCW-1), headquartered at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. Squadrons include the “Ironmen” of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ-3), the “Shadows” of VQ-4, and the “Roughnecks” of VQ-7.
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