6/30/2010
NEWS BRIEFS
U.S. Navy Replacing 75% of Fasteners on Submarine Communication Aircraft
U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft.
U.S. Air Force mechanics have examined and replaced up to 15,000 structural fasteners on the first of 16 Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft.
The Service Life Extension Program for the E-6 primarily consists of “beefing up” the tail and under-surfaces of the wing.
“We’re replacing 75% of the fasteners on the E-6 aircraft,” said Bill Cain, deputy director of the 566th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “It’s a pretty significant amount of work.”
Additionally, fastener holes are being widened and strengthened to extend the aircraft’s life to 2038.
Two shifts of aircraft maintenance squadron mechanics are working on the aircraft approximately 20 hours a day.
While officials acknowledged the maintenance process warranted more attention than usual, mechanics anticipate a smoother transition for the remaining 15 aircraft.
The E-6Bs are flown by members of the Strategic Communications Wing ONE, whose primary mission is airborne communication with Navy submarines. It also serves as an airborne command post for U.S. Strategic Command.
The final E-6 is planned to roll out of the 566th hangar in 2013. ©2010 GlobalFastenerNews.com
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