Navy Secures $3.46B Deal with Northrop Grumman for Next-Gen E-6B Mercury Aircraft

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER, MD – In a significant stride for U.S. naval aviation, the Navy has entrusted Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation with a $3.549 billion contract for integrating mission systems on the forthcoming E-130J aircraft, set to replace the E-6B Mercury in fulfilling the crucial TACAMO mission.

Northrop Grumman, based in Melbourne, Florida, will lead the integration of key systems, including the Collins Aerospace Very Low Frequency system, into C-130J-30 airframes supplied by Lockheed Martin Corp. The agreement encompasses the development of three Engineering Development Models, with additional options including three System Demonstration Test Articles and six initial production aircraft. Both Collins Aerospace and Lockheed Martin have defined roles as subcontractors, vital for integration and ensuring airworthiness.

“Our TACAMO mission is foundational to our nation’s nuclear Triad,” remarked Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, emphasizing the E-130J’s importance in maintaining national security.

The endeavor is spearheaded by the Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) under the Program Executive Office for Air Anti-Submarine Warfare, Assault and Special Mission Programs. Capt. Adam Scott, PMA-271 program manager, lauded the selection of Northrop Grumman, underscoring the aircraft’s role in sustaining connections for national leadership with nuclear forces.

Immediate commencement of development activities marks a pivotal step in ensuring airborne communication capabilities. The competitive source selection process, initiated on September 21, 2023, garnered considerable industry engagement prior to the decision.

The winning bid was chosen for its technical merit and value to the government. The E-130J will enhance the U.S.’s nuclear modernization, complementing assets like the Columbia-class submarines, B-21 Raider bombers, and emerging ground-based systems. This aircraft guarantees constant communication capabilities with nuclear forces, even during disruptions to terrestrial channels.

The E-6B, serving as a strategic command post, has successfully undertaken the TACAMO and Looking Glass missions, ensuring national strategic communications. With the E-130J, the TACAMO mission will transition seamlessly, maintaining these vital national security functions for future decades.

PMA-271 operates out of Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, delivering critical communications support to U.S. leadership. For further inquiries, contact PMA-271 Public Affairs Officer Kathy Hieatt at kathy.m.hieatt.civ@us.navy.mil or 301-757-1053.