Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1446249
Airlift Lockheed Martin suggests that the second squadron would be assigned to the 21st Airbase in Świdwin. So far the Polish MOD did not confirm that selection. Nonetheless, the base has been undergoing modernization and expansion for quite some time now. Airlift-focused offerings were also quite important at MSPO 2021, presented alongside the combat aircraft. Here, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, and WZL Nr 2 S.A. were the leading exhibitors, the first of which promoted the new- generation C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. Despite the fact the "Drop" airlift program has been suspended, the requirements of the Polish military and the Air Force mean that the necessity to procure new aircraft as such that would replace the C-130E Hercules fleet is imminent. The US- based manufacturer may enjoy a major handicap - Poland, since 2009, has been establishing a logistics/training support chain for this type of aircraft. Despite the growing competition, the Lockheed Martin C-130 is still the dominating design in the medium airlift sector. This is evident in Europe, where the platform is becoming more and more popular. This year Lockheed has rolled the first example for the German Air Force off the production line. Alongside the C-130J, Lockheed Martin also promoted its MC-145B SOMA (Special Operations Multi-Role Aircraft) platform in Kielce - a modified light M28 airlifter, tailored to meet the US requirements. The MC-145B SOMA program is being pursued in collaboration with PZLK Mielec, and Sierra Nevada Corporation. SOMA is one of the three designs qualified to take part in the final stage of the Armed Overwatch program, aimed at procurement of SOF Multi-role aircraft pursued by the US Department of Defense. MC-145B SOMA exhibits high levels of readiness, as the work already done concerning the M-28 Bryza program could be utilized - this also refers to the solutions implemented, following an order placed by the Polish MoD. Furthermore, a certification program for extra components has been launched in the US, involving an MC-145B prototype. Should the bid be selected, the US DoD plans to procure up to 75 aircraft. The MC-145B SOMA is competing against Beechcraft AT-6 Texan II, AirTractor AT-802U. Airbus, meanwhile, was promoting two flagship products - the C295 light airlifters, and the A330MRTT multi- role tankers. The former platform is well-known in Poland, as 16 examples are operated at the 8th Airlift Base in Cracow, being a relevant element of the Polish military airlift potential. The Armament Inspectorate of the Polish MoD is currently working on modernizing and homogenizing the existing fleet. For obvious reasons, Airbus remains the sole entity participating in the aforesaid effort. Its domestic branch - based around the Airbus-owned PZL Warszawa-Okęcie facility - would become the primary contractor. The European dominator is not limiting his offer to upgrade the Polish C-295Ms. Płomykówka and Rybitwa technical modernization programs envisage the procurement of six aircraft. The first three would act in a reconnaissance role, and another three would act as land-based MPA. Proposal for the latter project was showcased at the Airbus's stand - C-295 MPA model was presented, capable of conducting ASW operations with the use of light 324 mm torpedoes. Bydgoszcz-based WZL Nr 2 S.A. facility presented a proposal to modify the C-130H aircraft that are soon to be handed off to Poland by the US government. The publicized concept is one of the two proposals - the first has been developed by Elbit Systems, while the second is being prepared by Northrop Grumman, based on the AMP Inc. 2 program. The main emphasis has been placed, in both cases, on cockpit redesign. According to the latest trends, the redesign is to include the set up of MFDs, and, optionally, an HUD. Furthermore, the representatives of the Bydgoszcz-based facility suggest that the modification could be implemented during the planned PDM structural overhaul and that the work could also include the required setup of the optronics mount. The Israeli solution, meanwhile, is being operated by the IDF and by South Korea. WZL Nr 2 S.A. stresses that the Israeli solution is one of the potential offerings, while the AMP Inc. 2 program would be implemented on 176 USAF C-130Hs soon. We also know that the USA has already started the deliveries of the C-130H airlifters to Poland. The first example - 85-0035 - has already been towed from the storage facility to one of the workshops at the David Monthan AFB. A US-based specialist team would carry out an inspection preceding a ferry flight to Poland. So far the Armed Forces Support Inspectorate has not published any specifics on the details of a potential modification of the five airframes to be received. www.fragoutmag.com