Recommendation:
The ANG FY21 Mod book effectively states a requirement as follows; “An Enhanced Vision System (EVS) capable of seeing through low visibility conditions will significantly increase operational effectiveness and aircrew safety." Currently, neither the C-130J or C-130 (AMP) Avionics Modernization Program provides EVS capability. While the C-130J was designed with a Heads-Up Display (HUD) as a primary flight display to aid in situational awareness for tactical airlift missions, recent improvements in technology have made it possible to now include digital imagery, such as EVS, as a graphics overlay to the standard guidance symbology. This capability is also available on the heads down displays. EVS sensors are FAA certified and in-service on new commercial aircraft using a tri-band uncooled sensor mounted to the nose of the aircraft that effectively sees through smoke, dust, mist, fog, snow and precipitation in all phases of flight. Operators will immediately benefit from increased mission completion rates, significantly improved safety margins, and enhanced terrain awareness for tactical, polar, domestic operations & special mission roles (Rescue, Aerial Fire Fighting and Spraying).