Navy Grants $3.549B Contract to Northrop Grumman for E-6B Mercury Successor Development

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, MD – Today, the U.S. Navy confirmed a significant development concerning its nuclear deterrence capabilities. Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation was awarded a $3.549 billion contract for mission-systems integration of the new E-130J aircraft.

This new aircraft is being developed as a successor to the E-6B Mercury for the Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission. Under this contract, Northrop Grumman will be responsible for integrating critical mission systems, including the Collins Aerospace Very Low Frequency system, into C-130J-30 air vehicles. These air vehicles are provided by Lockheed Martin Corp. The contract includes plans for three Engineering Development Models and options for additional System Demonstration Test Articles and production aircraft.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro emphasized the importance of this mission, stating that the E-130J will uphold the legacy of the Navy TACAMO aircraft essential to nuclear safety. “Our TACAMO mission is foundational to our nation’s nuclear Triad,” he remarked.

The initiative is managed by the Navy’s Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office, known as PMA-271, which is part of the Program Executive Office for Air Anti-Submarine Warfare, Assault and Special Mission Programs.

Capt. Adam Scott, the PMA-271 program manager, highlighted the deal’s implications for national security, noting the pivotal role the E-130J will play in maintaining communication with nuclear forces for many years. “Today is a tremendous day for the future of naval aviation’s contribution to our nation’s nuclear deterrence mission,” he stated.

The awarding of this contract follows a rigorous competitive selection process, with the Navy assessing proposals to find the most cost-effective and technically proficient solution. The request for proposals was issued on September 21, 2023, and submissions are due by April 22, 2024.

The E-130J forms a crucial segment of the U.S. nuclear modernization program. This modernization includes new developments such as the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines and the B-21 Raider bomber. The new aircraft will ensure vital command connectivity in nuclear operations.

The E-6B, which the E-130J will replace for the TACAMO mission, serves as an airborne communications relay and strategic command post, integral to U.S. nuclear command architecture.

PMA-271 is housed at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, focusing on delivering dependable and enduring airborne command capabilities for top-tier government leaders.