Acquisition: Contracting for and Performance of the C-130 Aircraft

We performed this audit in response to allegations to the Defense Hotline concerning the Defense Contract Management Agency's oversight of Lockheed Martin's performance on the C-130, F-22, and C-5 aircraft. This is the third in a series of three reports concerning the allegations. This report addresses the allegation that the C-130J aircraft does not meet contract specifications and therefore cannot perform its operational mission. The primary mission of the C-130J remains unchanged from the existing C-130 fleet. The C-130J performs the intratheater portion of the airlift mission and is a platform for dropping troops and equipment into hostile areas. The C-130J aircraft is a medium-range, tactical aircraft and is the newest upgrade to the C-130 fleet. Enhancements include a modern glass cockpit with digital avionics, an improved electrical system, new engines and propellers, and an enhanced cargo handling and delivery system. In addition, the C-130J aircraft requires only a three-person flight crew instead of the five-person flight crew that the previous H-version required. Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer, discontinued production of the H version in 1997 and promoted the C-130J as a commercial aircraft.