| ACIG
Exclusives Chapter 8 : American Heavies |
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| Besides the F-15Es and the experimental Bell 407, the American delegation brought along three major aircraft - the C-130J, the P-3C and the KC-135. This represented quite a change from the almost non-existent representation in the past few years. The Hercules and Orion were being marketed for potential sale years before and it was only fitting that they be represented by actual examples for once. In contrast, Dassault, the most likely choice for the IAF's MRCA requirements, never brought the Mirage-2000-5 Mk.II. | |
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A C-130J Hercules, a P-3C Orion and a KC-135 Stratotanker, constituted the largest aircraft on exhibit. None of them flew as a part of the air display but their presence did make a big difference. The only thing missing was an E-2C Hawkeye-2000 which was also being aggressively marketed. |
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The KC-135R' (60-348) is from the 909th ARS of the 18th 'ZZ' Wing ('Shoguns'), based at Kadena AFB, Okinawa, Japan. This aircraft was primarily to support the F-15Es and was the very first sight on the static display lineup. |
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The KC-135R was a significant exhibit for it was one type that wasn't actually being marketed. PACAF should have around fifteen KC-135R stationed at Kadena AFB for IFR, theatre airlift, communication and evacuation. |
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This KC-135R has a cargo door and the 463-L cargo roller system which enables to act as both a tanker and airlifter, similar to the KC-10A. Several important diplomats were also ferried in through this aircraft. |
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The C-130J (65-300) is from the USAF Reserve Command's 403rd Operations Group based at Keesler AFB, Mississippi. The 403rd OG was commanded by Col. Michael Underkofler. The aircraft's last stop was the Czech Republic and it's next stop will be Brunei, for another demonstration to the Sultan of Brunei. |
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In 2003, an IAF delegation got a first hand look at the C-130J during their visit to Keesler and Eglin AFBs. An An-12 class aircraft, somewhere in between the Il-76MD and the An-32, it is unclear of where this type stands with respect to actual IAF requirements. |
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Major changes include a new mission computer, HUDs for both pilots and computerized diagnostics besides the improved engine performance and cargo capacity. The crew repeatedly swear by the new features which are claimed to make the type an all-new aircraft. |
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The C-130 should not be an unfamiliar sight here. One USAF C-130 and one RAF C-130J were a part of the show in 1996 and 2001 respectively. |
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Lockheed Martin proposed the C-130J sale at Aero India 2003 but may not have been taken seriously until now. The IAF however, hasn't officially put out a requirement or tender for such a class of aircraft. |
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There exists a genuine requirement for additional MRASW aircraft for the Indian Navy. In the absence of the any other real options, the P-3C stands a good chance of being purchased and this exhibit illustrates the seriousness of negotiations. |
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This P-3C '124' is from the US Naval Air Facility of the Commander, Patrol & Reconnaissance Group Pacific, Misawa, Japan. |
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Acquisition of the P-3C remains a risky venture in view of the effect of potential sanctions. The aircraft certainly has not received approval from all sections of the Indian Navy. Even the induction of small numbers would require major changes to existing facilities and infrastructure. Skepticism is also fueled by the age of the aircraft type. |
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Weaponisation options have not been discussed but in the case of a purchase, an Israeli avionics fit, including the Elta EL/M-2022A-V3 maritime radar, is likely. |
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HAL and Lockheed Martin have signed a Technical Assessment agreement for exchange/transfer of data on the P-3C. This example has it's gimballed electro-optics turret installed near the sonobuoy bay, instead of under the nose. |
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In the past, P-3Cs have taken part in joint exercises with the Indian Navy, operating from Dabolim (Goa). The KC-135, P-3C and C-130J were very successful as crowd pullers. |
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