Avionics Modernization and the C-130J Software Factory

The rollout of the first production C-130 aircraft, the C-130A, took place on March 10, 1955. Since then, more than 2,100 C-130s have been built in dozens of variations and are flown by more than 60 nations worldwide. They carry troops, vehicles, and armaments into battle. They drop paratroopers and supplies from the sky. They serve as airborne and ground refuelers. They serve as flying hospitals, hurricane hunters, and provide emergency evacuation and humanitarian relief. They perform airborne early warning and maritime surveillance. They’ve worn skis in Antarctica and have helped recover space capsules. In May 1992, the 2,000th C-130, a C-130H, was delivered. In September 1992, formal development of the C-130J began. Unlike its predecessors, the C-130J is a software intensive system employing modern avionics that have made significant improvements in its performance. By March 2001, the C-130J flew with a complete compliment of mission computer software setting 50 world records. This article presents insight into Lockheed Martin’s modernization of the C-130 airlifter family.