The U.S. Air Force has selected Lockheed Martin to modify one C-130J aircraft for the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. The contract also contains options for two additional aircraft and has a total value of approximately $29 million.

The modified C-130J, referred to as "Super J" will be operated by the 193rd Special Operations Wing in Middletown, Pa. The Super J modifications are necessary for the future conversion of the aircraft to an EC-130J Commando Solo configuration. Commando Solo refers to a specially-modified Hercules transport that conducts information operations and civil affairs broadcasts in AM, FM, HF, TV and military communications bands.

"We are excited about this opportunity to support the Air National Guard's important special operations mission," said David J. Posek, President of Lockheed Martin Aircraft & Logistics Centers. "This will be the first major C-130J modification performed by our aircraft center in Greenville, S.C."

At Greenville, Lockheed Martin will install aerial refueling equipment, a modified operator station, an expanded internal communication system, plus a more powerful generator for needed electrical power. The aircraft will be delivered to the Pennsylvania Air National Guard in the third quarter of 2006.

"This modification program represents a key step in maturing the Aircraft & Logistics Centers' capabilities with the C-130J platform," said Walt Sirmans, senior program manager for C-130 Programs at Greenville.

The C-130J is the latest addition to the C-130 fleet and will replace aging C-130Es. The C-130J incorporates state-of-the-art technology to reduce manpower requirements, lower operating and support costs, and provides lifecycle cost savings over earlier C-130 models.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin