The US Navy has unveiled the name „Phoenix II” for its new EC-130J nuclear command and control plane, referencing the mythical bird reborn from ashes, but the aircraft may lose a key mission previously held by its predecessor.
Rebirth of TACAMO
The name „Phoenix II” alludes to the platform fulfilling the TACAMO (Take Charge and Move Out) mission since 1963, continuing a critical role in ensuring operational continuity for the Navy’s nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarines.
Critical Communications Link
The EC-130J’s primary mission is to provide a secure communications line between the national command authority and nuclear forces, ensuring a response capability in the event of a nuclear first strike.
Backstop for All Nuclear Forces
Originally intended for submarine communications, the TACAMO plane has evolved into a backstop for communicating with all US nuclear forces.
Replacing the E-6B Mercury
The Phoenix II will replace the Navy’s aging E-6B Mercury aircraft, which entered service in the 1980s.
Northrop Grumman Integrator
Northrop Grumman secured a $3.5 billion contract to integrate the C-130J-30 airframe with the Collins Aerospace-made Very Low Frequency Communications system and other systems.
Requesting Funds
The Navy is requesting $1.2 billion in research and development funding for TACAMO in fiscal 2026.
Potential Mission Change
The Pentagon is considering transferring the Operation Looking Glass mission, which focuses on maintaining communications with land-based nuclear launch forces, back to the Air Force.
Efficiency Question
Splitting TACAMO and Looking Glass missions could improve efficiency, as the Air Force may have alternative methods for fulfilling the Looking Glass mission.
Navy’s Perspective
A Navy spokesperson deferred to earlier comments by Vice Adm. Johnny Wolfe, who stated the Navy is engaged on how to meet the requirements of both missions until a decision is made.
Air Force Preparedness
An Air Force spokesperson said that if the decision is made to transfer the mission, the Air Force will conduct a thorough analysis to ensure the selection of the most efficient and effective platform.
