C-130 AMP Completes Software Development

Boeing completed software development for its C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP), the company said Friday. The milestone, together with the test flight Aug. 18, marks the end of the developmental stage of the aircraft’s hardware and software. Boeing said it will begin low rate initial production (LRIP) early next year. Boeing will install kits on 11 C-130 transport aircraft under the LRIP agreement. The company is expected to provide the AMP modifications and upgrades to more than 200 C-130 aircraft under the Air Force contract awarded in 2001. The first AMP aircraft, AMP 1 (H2), is at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., for a comprehensive inspection and system check. AMP 2 will continue ground and flight testing at the Air Force Flight Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base. A third aircraft, AMP 3 (H3), is undergoing modifications and upgrades at Boeing’s San Antonio facility. For related news