Air Mobility Plan, 2008 - The Black Vault

KC-135 Roadmap
Modification Explanations
KC-135 Aircraft Extension Program
The KC-135 AEP is AMC’s latest effort to keep the KC-135 an effective asset through FY 2040. The
program will start in FY08 and be delivered in multiple increments:
• Increment 1 - KC-135 Block 45: Digital integrated flight director (FD)/radio altimeter (RA),
night vision imaging system (NVIS), external and boom pod lighting, aeromedical evacuation
(AE) upgrades (i.e., heating, power, lighting), aircrew situational awareness Group A (e.g.,
wiring, antennas, cockpit mount, equipment racks, multi-purpose interface panel).
• Increment 2 - KC-135 Block 50: Defensive systems, glass cockpit, autopilot (AP)/angle of
attack (AOA) system, digital HF radio; further AE upgrades (aircraft cooling); NVIS compatible
cockpit.
(b)(5)
(b)(5)
Defensive Systems
This effort will install a system to protect the KC-135 from infrared (IR) and radio frequency
threats (RF) to reduce vulnerability from IR and RF guided weapon systems. Large aircraft infrared
countermeasures (LAIRCM) provides a highly effective defensive capability for transport and
tanker aircraft against IR surface-to-air missiles. The system consists of a missile warning system
and directed laser countermeasures. The current requirement calls for equipping all KC-135s with
defensive systems, beginning with LAIRCM installation on 22 KC-135s to support special missions.
The capabilities outlined in the Advanced Situational Awareness and Countermeasures (ASACM)
capability development document (CDD) will provide both situational awareness to the crew in
regards to the RF threat environment, and when applicable/installed, RF countermeasures.
Enhanced Surveillance/Mode 5
The current KC-135 APX-100 Mode S transponder does not meet anticipated Eurocontrol requirements
for enhanced surveillance (anticipated for FY09), nor the DOD requirement (per HQ USAF/XO
message 15 May 2002) to upgrade Mode 4 to Mode 5, encrypted military identification friend or foe
(IFF) systems. Enhanced surveillance will begin fielding no later than FY08 with Mode 5 to follow.
The solution is to procure a new APX-119 transponder.
Wheel and Brake System Improvement
The KC-135 WBSI replaces the current steel brakes and incorporates a commercial, off-the-shelf
carbon brake system similar to that already in use on the C-17. The WBSI also incorporates an
improved wheel assembly that features removable heat-shield segments, is compatible with radial
tires, and is expected to increase service life and improve overall reliability and maintainability. The
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OCT 07