The Air Force’s decision to only upgrade some 220 C-130s as a result of cost growth in the avionics modernization program may not be the final word. Gene Rector of the Macon Telegraph reports that USAF is working up a plan to include, if possible, another 166 Hercules—including many flown by Air Force Special Operations Command. Col. Kevin Buckley, head of the 866th Aeronautical Systems Group at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, told the Georgia newspaper that discussions on the additional aircraft are underway, but funding restrictions could still rule the day. USAF expects to submit a plan to DOD within the next three months. The Warner Robins Air Logistics Center in Georgia was to have a large share of the AMP work.
The Air Force is renaming its traditional aviation bonus program in 2024 and continuing a new, experimental second program, ordered by Congress, aimed at getting aviators to extend their commitment sooner and for longer. While the programs can’t be doubled-up, aviators may be able to move from one to the…