Combat Talon Modifications Tested

The first risk-reduction flight of an MC-130E Combat Talon I upgraded with new avionics was conducted at the Air Force Flight Test Center at Edwards AFB, California, on 15 March. The flights will determine the performance of the new terrain-following radar and algorithms that produce a visual cue by which the pilots fly. The upgrades include a glass cockpit with a head-up display as well as new radar, flight management system, and air data computer. A new radome is also being evaluated. The aircraft tested belongs to the Air Force Reserve Command’s 919th Special Operations Wing at Duke Field, Florida.