The US Air Force has awarded R4-Integration a contract worth $74 million to equip 39 HC-130J aircraft with KuKa beyond line-of-sight satellite communication systems. The upgrade aims to enhance long-range communications and improve connectivity for the aircraft during complex missions. Under the firm-fixed-price contract, the company will provide the required hardware and software components, conduct system integration and testing, produce installation kits, and deliver spare parts and satellite communication services. The new capability will allow the aircraft to operate using both Ku-band and Ka-band satellite frequencies, expanding communication flexibility and reliability. Work associated with the program will be carried out at several US Air Force installations, including Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, Moody Air Force Base in Georgia, and Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. The project is expected to be completed by June 2030. Funding for the contract includes fiscal year 2025 resources from the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies initiative and the National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account. The modernization program is part of a broader effort to upgrade the HC-130J fleet, which plays a critical role in search-and-rescue and long-range surveillance operations. In recent years, the aircraft has received several upgrades aimed at improving mission performance and operational capabilities. The US Coast Guard recently took delivery of its 18th mission-configured HC-130J aircraft equipped with advanced sensors and the Minotaur Mission System developed by L3Harris. Additional upgrades have included modernization of electro-optical and infrared systems to enhance personnel recovery and reconnaissance missions.
