UTC Aerospace Systems (UTAS, Chalet CD09) has completed the first two upgrades of U.S. Air National Guard (ANG) Lockheed Martin C-130H propellers, outfitting 153rd Airlift Wing aircraft with its NP2000 system.

The NP2000 replaces a 1960s-era mechanical control system, incorporating eight composite blades and a digital electronic control system that improves speed holding and blade synchronization, UTAS said. Among the system's other benefits are reduced noise and vibration, a thrust increase, and fuel savings. In addition, blades can be changed individually on-wing without removing the entire propeller system, reducing maintenance costs.

The two C-130H upgrades for the Wyoming-based 153rd Airlift Wing are part of a larger contract that includes 10 LC-130 upgrades for New York’s 109th Airlift Wing. Work has begun on those modifications, UTAS said. The ANG has identified seven wings flying the C-130H that will receive engine and propeller upgrades in the coming years.

Other aircraft that have been upgraded with NP2000s include the Northrop Grumman E-2 and C-2.