L-3 Display Systems (L-3 DS) was selected by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics to provide the Combat Systems Operator (CSO) Video Display Terminal (VDT) for the MC-130J aircraft. Under the terms of this contract, which was awarded in late 2011, L-3 DS is designing and manufacturing the 15-inch rugged display with dual-mode night vision image system-compatible backlight technology.

MC-130J CSOs will be outfitted with a secure presentation platform that has an ARINC 818 fiber-optic interface with touch-screen and high-definition video capability. The L-3 DS VDTs are compatible with any Special Mission/Display Computer that complies with the ARINC 818 video standard, providing real-time situational awareness for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command.

The Preliminary Design Review and Critical Design Review milestones have been successfully completed, and procurement is currently under way to support hardware integration, with initial deliveries in November 2012.

"This contract expands L-3 Display Systems' relationship with Lockheed Martin's C-130J team and equips the MC-130J platform with the most advanced display technology available," said Bruce Coffey, president of L-3 Display Systems. "We are pleased to build upon our 35-year heritage in display and visualization systems, and over 2,500 deliveries of proven C-130J displays and processing computers."