The US Air Force has awarded R4‑Integration a $74-million contract to install KuKa beyond line‑of‑sight (BLOS) communication suites on 39 HC-130J aircraft.
Under the firm‑fixed‑price award, R4‑Integration will supply all necessary hardware and software components, integrate and test trial kits, produce installation kits and spares, and deliver satellite communication services to enable broader use of both Ku and Ka frequency bands.
Work will take place at locations including Davis‑Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona; Moody AFB, Georgia; Kirtland AFB, New Mexico; and others, with completion expected by June 2030.
Funds obligated at award include fiscal 2025 Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies and National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account resources.
HC‑130J Modernization Developments
Recent years have seen a series of upgrades and deliveries aimed at enhancing HC‑130J aircraft capabilities and fleet strength.
This month, the US Coast Guard received its 18th missionized HC‑130J long‑range surveillance aircraft, outfitted with the Minotaur Mission Systems Suite and advanced multi‑mode radar sensors by L3Harris.
This supports homeland security and maritime operations from bases such as Sacramento, California, and Barbers Point, Hawaii.
Earlier, in January 2025, the service took delivery of its 17th HC‑130J Combat King II aircraft as part of its aerial mission systems modernization program, integrating common sensor and communications systems to improve surveillance and command functions across its fleet.
Another notable contract in 2025 saw Raytheon awarded $100 million to support the HC‑130J Combat King II variant by retrofitting and repairing key electro‑optical and infrared systems vital for its personnel recovery and surveillance missions.
