The USA’s E-6 Fleet: Take Charge, And Move Out!
July 4/18: Repair work Performance Aircraft Services is being contracted for repair work on the Navy’s fleet of E-6B aircraft. The $57 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract provides for the removal and replacement of sealant on fuel cells and aircraft surfaces, as well as on the internal surface of wing fuel tanks for up to 16 aircraft. The USA’s E-6 Mercury “survivable airborne communication system” airplanes support their Navy’s SSBN ballistic missile submarine force and overall strategic forces. The 707-300 derivatives have a range of about 5,500 miles and can easily carry 23 crew members. The E-6 flies independent random operations from various deployed sites for approximately 15-day intervals. Each deployed crew is self-supporting except for fuel and perishables, and the mission requires a 24-hour commitment of resources (alert posture) in the Atlantic and Pacific regions. Work will be performed in Waco, Texas and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is expected to be completed in May 2023.
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The USA’s E-6 Mercury (aka. TACAMO, as in TAke Charge And Move Out) “survivable airborne communication system” airplanes support their Navy’s SSBN ballistic missile submarine force and overall strategic forces. With the advent of the new “Tactical Trident” converted Ohio Class special operations subs, their unique capabilities become even more useful. The E-6B version also has a secondary role as a “Looking Glass” Airborne National Command Post, and in recent years they have seen use as communications relay stations over the front lines of combat.
Delivery of the first production E-6 aircraft took place in August 1989, with delivery of the 16th and final airplane coming in May 1992. This is DID’s FOCUS Article concerning the E-6 system, which includes details concerning the capabilities and associated contracts. The latest contracts involve important fleet upgrades, as the Navy tries to drag the jet’s systems into the 21st century.
E-6 Mercury: Messenger from On High
E-6B Upgrade Efforts
E-6 Mercury: Contracts and Key Events
FY 2013 – 2018
FY 2011 – 2012
FY 2009 – 2010
FY 2007 – 2008
FY 1990 – 2006
Additional Readings
Other National Command Jets
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