The USA’s E-6 Fleet: Take Charge, And Move Out!
August 30/19: Repair The Defense Logistics Agency Aviation in Philadelphia awarded Boeing a $27 million delivery order for E-6B repair. The Boeing E-6 Mercury is a command post and communications relay aircraft manufactured by Boeing. The aircraft relays communications for ballistic missile submarine forces and provides airborne command and control for strategic forces. The E-6B features battle staff positions and an airborne launch control system equipped with land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles. The aircraft is deployed in TACAMO missions. TACAMO connects the National Command Authority with naval ballistic missile forces during emergency operations. The delivery order was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 US Code 2304(c)(1), as stated in Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1. Boeing will perform work in Oklahoma and estimated completion date is March 1, 2021.
(click to view full)
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 – 2019
FY 2011 – 2012
FY 2009 – 2010
FY 2007 – 2008
FY 1990 – 2006
Additional Readings
Other National Command Jets
(click to view cutaway)
(click to view cutaway)
(click to view full)
(click to view full)
(click to view full)
(click to view full)
(click to view full)
Fill in the secure form below to activate your subscription right away (or pick another plan)
