USAF overhauling the ALCS

The U.S. Air Force has selected both Lockheed Martin and Rockwell Collins for the upgrade of the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS). The ALCS allows the U.S. Navy’s E-6B to launch ground-based intercontinental ballistic missiles via radio.

Airborne Launch Control System patch
By United States Air Force (625th Strategic Operations Squadron) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Both company’s were given $81 million each for the three-year design competition.

Once in place by 2024, the new system will allow the remote launch of current Minuteman III and future Ground Based Strategic Deterrent ICBMs.