US Navy awards billions for E-130J development

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Melbourne, Florida, a $3.46 billion contract to develop the E-130J, a critical element in the U.S. Navy’s TACAMO (Take Charge and Move Out) Recapitalization Program.

This initiative aims to replace the aging fleet of E-6B Mercury aircraft with advanced platforms designed to maintain secure communication links between U.S. decision-makers and strategic weapon delivery systems.

The contract encompasses the engineering and manufacturing development of the E-130J, including the integration of Collins Aerospace’s Very Low Frequency (VLF) subsystem into a government-furnished C-130J-30 airframe. Northrop Grumman will also oversee the creation of integration laboratories, training devices, product support, initial spares, and the delivery of three engineering development model aircraft.

The E-130J is being developed to relieve the E-6B Mercury fleet of its TACAMO mission, a critical component of the United States’ nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) infrastructure. TACAMO ensures survivable communication between the National Command Authority and the U.S. strategic triad, including ballistic missile submarines capable of delivering nuclear weapons.

Jane Bishop, vice president and general manager, global surveillance division, Northrop Grumman: “Our performance on Navy programs like the E-2D and E-6B prove we deliver on what we promise, and we will bring this expertise in helping the Navy deliver the E-130J on time and optimized for this strategically important mission.”

The industry team supporting Northrop Grumman includes Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, Raytheon Intelligence and Space, Crescent Systems, Inc., and Long Wave Inc.

The $3.46 billion contract, managed by Naval Air Systems Command at Patuxent River, Maryland, involves work across multiple U.S. locations, including: Melbourne, Florida: 35%; Marietta, Georgia: 23%; Richardson, Texas: 15%. Other locations in Florida, Oklahoma, Indiana, and California.

The project is expected to be completed by December 2034. Initial funding includes $27 million from fiscal year 2025 and $9.3 million from fiscal year 2024 research, development, test, and evaluation funds.

Until the E-130J is operational, Northrop Grumman will continue supporting the E-6B Mercury fleet, providing integrated modifications and maintenance to enhance its command, control, and communication functions.

The transition to the E-130J represents a significant modernization effort to ensure survivable and reliable communication for the nation’s strategic deterrent. With its advanced capabilities and integration of VLF technology, the E-130J will play a pivotal role in maintaining the United States’ global strategic posture.

Northrop Grumman’s expertise in weapons system integration, combined with its strong industry partnerships, positions the company to deliver a transformative capability for the Navy’s most critical mission.