The first test aircraft in the Air Force’s C-130 avionics modernization program has completed its 100th flight, reaching the halfway point in its flight program ahead of schedule, lead contractor Boeing announced June 9. This aircraft, a C-130H2 model, has been flying from Edwards AFB, Calif., and has already made several cross-country jaunts, the company said. “This achievement is a testament to the robustness and reliability of the AMP systems,” said Mike Harris, Boeing VP and C-130 AMP program manager. “We are very pleased with the aircraft’s performance.” A second test aircraft, an H2.5 airframe is also flying at Edwards and a third test platform, a C-130H3, is undergoing modifications and upgrades at Boeing’s facility in San Antonio, Tex., and is expected to fly early next year. The Air Force’s current plans call for upgrading 222 older model C-130s under the AMP with a fully integrated, night-vision-goggle compatible, digital glass cockpit and a new digital avionics system. Pentagon acquisition czar John Young plans a meeting later this month to decide whether to allow the program to advance into low-rate initial production.
The Pentagon’s new Independent Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military has 90 days to find ways to combat the problem within the ranks, and the group will consider all options to address an issue that has “shattered the dreams” of many service members who joined with optimism about…