The Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF’s) C-130J Large Aircraft Infra-Red Counter-Measures has achieved Final Operational Capability, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 4 December.
Delivered under project AIR 5416 Phase 4B2, the system provides enhanced protection against infrared guided missiles for the RAAF’s fleet of C-130J tactical transport aircraft.
Eight of the twelve aircraft were modified in Australia by Airbus Australia Pacific under a local commercial licencing arrangement.
CAE Australia has also modified the C-130J Full Flight Simulator to reflect the changes to the aircraft.
Director General Air Combat Enablers, Air Commodore Mark Green, said: ‘Maintaining effective defences against these prolific and increasingly sophisticated weapons is essential to the safe operation of the aircraft. Defence has been able to complete this critical upgrade three months earlier than projected, and under budget by $146.85 million.’
RAAF Airlift Programme
C-130J Super Hercules