New C-130J Transports Eyed

The U.S. State Dept. has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale of cargo aircraft to Australia, reports the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The proposed US$6.35 billion deal covers 24 C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft and associated communications, navigation and self-protection systems.

These include AN/ALQ-251 radio-frequency countermeasure systems; AN/AAQ-24 Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure (LAIRCM) systems; AN/AAR-47 missile warning systems; AN/ALR-56 radar warning systems; and AN/ALE-47 countermeasure dispensing systems among other.

The proposed sale is intended to replace Australia’s aging Super Hercules fleet and provide an enhanced operational capability, said the agency.