Collins Aerospace Systems announced it has successfully completed the modernization of the E-6B Block I aircraft fleet, part of the Navy’s Airborne Command Post and Take Charge and Move Out (ABNCP/TACAMO) weapon system missions.
The upgraded aircraft features a new command and control battlestaff, communications central control, multi-enclave voice/data/video distribution system, and an Internet Protocol Bandwidth Expansion (IPBE) digital backbone.
The company acted as the mission system integrator (MSI), designing, developing, producing, installing, and qualifying the recapitalization of the mission system.
“The Block I contract is an example and testament to Collins Aerospace’s ability to deliver comprehensive, integrated and durable solutions to the Navy and E-6B community,” said Heather Robertson, vice president and general manager, Integrated Solutions, Mission Systems, Collins Aerospace. “As a result of this upgrade, crews have a modern, multi-enclave mission system that provides a full picture of their operating environment.”
As part of the ABNCP mission, the E-6B is an airborne command post and communications relay for US nuclear forces. In August this year, the E-6 demonstrated this capability by launching a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.
For the TACAMO mission, the E-6B provides the survivable communications link to the submarine forces using a very low frequency (VLF) terminal.
