The US Navy is set to nearly double its fleet of 'Doomsday Planes' with the acquisition of 31 E-130J Phoenix II aircraft. These planes will replace the existing fleet of 16 E-6B Mercury jets, which have been in service since 1989. The E-130Js will be converted from C-130J-30 Hercules cargo planes and will provide aerial command and control support for nuclear ballistic missile submarines.
The new fleet is expected to offer strategic readiness benefits, with the ability to operate from a larger number of air bases and airports. However, the program has faced technical risks and delays, with the Government Accountability Office raising concerns about operational availability and system integration.
The Navy has acknowledged these risks and is working to address them through risk reduction contracts with subcontractors. The E-130J program is on track, with a preliminary design review conducted in April and a full system design review planned for July.
