US Coast Guard faces key procurement decisions after C-130J and MQ-9B orders

The US Coast Guard is advancing aviation modernisation after ordering six additional C-130J long-range surveillance aircraft and MQ-9B unmanned aircraft, while helicopter and mission-equipment decisions remain open. The September 24, 2026, C-130J order will expand the fleet to 25 aircraft, with the first delivery expected in fiscal 2028 and completion by the end of fiscal 2030. Further contracts are still required for aircraft missionisation and new helicopters, separating airframe purchases from the equipment and support needed for operational fielding. The programme therefore combines awarded fixed-wing and unmanned acquisitions with unresolved rotary-wing and integration requirements across the service's maritime-surveillance fleet.