TAI Will Realize the Avionic Modernization of Tu AF C130 Aircraft

In accordance with the resolution of the Defense Industry Executive Committee, held in February 2006, TUSAŞ Aerospace Industries (TAI) was assigned as the prime contractor of the “Erciyes Program,” which comprises the avionics system modernization of 13 C-130 aircraft that are in the inventory of the Turkish Air Force Command (TuAF).

The contract, regarding the program, was signed between the Undersecretary for Defense Industries (SSM) and TAI at a ceremony held at SSM on 1 December 2006.

The prototype phase of the program, which is planned to last 56 months, includes the modernization of two aircraft at TAI’s facilities and will be completed in 30 months. The remaining 11 aircraft will be modernized at TuAF 2nd Air Supply and Maintenance Center under the supervision and responsibility of TAI.

Under the program, a total of 17 new systems will be integrated on the aircraft, whereas five existing systems will be upgraded. Thus, the aircraft, the flight safety of which will be enhanced, will comply with the international aviation rules. With the integration of modern systems, the aircraft will become endurable in forthcoming years.

The program is of great importance as it the first time in the world that an avionic modernization/integration program in such configuration and scope will be realized under TAI’s prime contractor and completely with national capabilities.

Within the framework of the program, not only the indigenous central control computer, but also the development activities of the software that will be embedded in the computer, will be realized in Turkey. Therefore, the maintenance and management costs of the aircraft will be significantly decreased and upgrade as well as alteration will be possible in accordance with changing requirements.

With the realization of the Erciyes Program, TAI will achieve an advantage to meet the modernization requirements of the countries that have C-130s in their inventories.

Source: Tusas Aerospace Industries; issued Dec. 1, 2006