Keywords
Citation
(2000), "Superior upgrade programme", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 72 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2000.12772dab.020
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited
Superior upgrade programme
Superior upgrade programme
Keywords: Marshall Aerospace, South Africa, Military, Aircraft, Upgrade
The South African Airforce (SAAF) C-130 Upgrade Programme currently being undertaken at Marshall Aerospace in Cambridge, UK, has entered the final stages of the project.
Having completed the complex integration ground tests and initial shake down flight testing, the final development phase has now been reached. The new digital autopilot has been successfully engaged in flight and testing continues which will culminate in the clearance of the Category II autoland capability.
In addition to the autopilot, the upgrade embodies large liquid crystal flight displays, navigation systems upgrade, integrated communications and self-defence, all fed by a substantially enhanced electrical generation system.
Reports from MA's highly experienced test pilots and flight test engineers indicate that design goals have been met and that the upgrade will provide a major reduction in crew work load and corresponding improvement in operational capability.