Hercules Flight Decks Modified
by Marshall, Sextant Avionique

Although the latest C-130J version of the Lockheed Martin Hercules is now being delivered, the many operators of C-130H and earlier models of this transport workhorse are still interested in upgrading their existing aircraft. Several flight deck modification programs are currently under way around the world, one of which is available for inspection on the Marshall Aerospace stand (A11, Hall 4).

Marshall, a long-term supporter of the RAF's Hercules fleet, has joined forces with Sextant Avionique to offer the Topdeck advanced avionics system to operators. Topdeck is part of Sextant's IMS family of integrated modular avionics system and has already been adopted by one customer for its Hercules fleet.

A fully open system which integrates all the operational functions of a modern transport aircraft, Topdeck incorporates a mission management system which performs special tactical functions-such as air dropping and assault landings-as well as those associated with normal flying. The system includes a ring-laser gyro INS with embedded GPS for autonomous navigation, a digital autopilot flight director for Cat II approaches, and large liquid crystal displays and HUDs for the pilots.

By Paul Jackson