The High Technology Test Bed Program - An Overview

Tactical Airlifters in the battlefield of the future will be required to operate on unprepared or damaged runways in all weather conditions without navigational or landing aids. Lockheed is addressing technologies required for these missions in an independent research and development program using a highly modified commercial C-130 aircraft as the technology integration focal point - a “Flying Laboratory.” The HTTB Program addresses the major technology areas of advanced short takeoff and Sanding, survivability, advanced cockpit, and electronic systems. The Program goal is to develop systems to support autonomous operations into a 1500-foot landing area, up to and including a 50-foot obstacle at the runway threshold.