This article is based on an official press release from Collins Aerospace.

Collins Aerospace Secures Global Supply Chain for C-130 Fleet with New Distribution Agreements

Collins Aerospace, a business unit of RTX, has announced the signing of three-year parts distribution agreements with three major aviation logistics providers: Integrated Procurement Technologies (IPT), S3 AeroDefense, and Derco, a Lockheed Martin company. According to an official press release issued on January 21, 2026, these agreements are designed to bolster hardware availability and logistics support for the C-130 Hercules wheels and brakes.

The initiative aims to streamline the global supply chain for operators of the C-130, a military transport aircraft utilized by more than 70 nations. By decentralizing distribution through established partners, Collins Aerospace intends to improve fleet readiness and facilitate easier access to its proprietary DURACARB® carbon brake technology.

Strategic Partnerships to Enhance Logistics

The agreements leverage the specific market strengths of three distinct partners to cover the vast global footprint of the C-130 fleet. In the company’s announcement, Collins Aerospace outlined the roles of the selected distributors:

• Derco: A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the C-130. Derco’s integration with the OEM supply chain positions it to support official sustainment programs effectively.
• S3 AeroDefense: A distributor known for avionics and upgrades. S3 already distributes the Collins NP2000 propeller system, allowing them to offer a comprehensive upgrade package to operators.
• Integrated Procurement Technologies (IPT): Specializing in military aircraft spares and repair management, IPT provides critical regional coverage for international air forces and Foreign Military Sales (FMS).

Matt Maurer, Vice President and General Manager of Landing Systems at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the operational importance of these agreements in a statement included in the press release:

“The C-130 Hercules plays a vital role in global air mobility, supporting everything from combat operations to humanitarian relief. Wheels and brakes are mission-critical components… These distribution agreements will help ensure fleet readiness for our customers, enabling them to operate where they’re needed most.”

Technological Advantages of DURACARB®

A primary objective of these distribution deals is to drive the adoption of Collins Aerospace’s DURACARB® carbon brakes over legacy steel brake systems. According to technical specifications provided by Collins Aerospace, the carbon brake technology offers significant performance and maintenance advantages.

Extended Service Life and Efficiency

Data released by the company indicates that the DURACARB® carbon brakes are capable of achieving approximately 2,000 landings per overhaul. This represents an eight-fold improvement over legacy steel brakes, which typically require overhaul after just 250 landings. Furthermore, the wheel and brake assembly features 17% fewer parts than previous iterations, simplifying the repair process.

The design also incorporates a “lock-ring” wheel mechanism that eliminates the need for tie bolts. Collins Aerospace states that this design innovation can reduce tire change times by up to 80%, a critical factor for military operators requiring rapid turnaround times in the field.

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Supply Chain Resilience and Aftermarket Strategy

The decision to split distribution rights among three distinct entities, Derco, S3, and IPT, suggests a deliberate strategy to build resilience into the supply chain. Rather than relying on a single funnel for global distribution, Collins Aerospace is tapping into the unique customer bases of each partner. Derco provides a direct line to Lockheed Martin’s OEM customers, while IPT and S3 offer specialized access to international and upgrade-focused markets respectively.

From a financial perspective, this move underscores the importance of the aftermarket sector for defense contractors like RTX. While the sale of a C-130 airframe occurs once, the sustainment of that asset spans decades. With industry estimates from Flight Global and Cirium placing the active global C-130 fleet at approximately 1,100 aircraft, the recurring revenue potential from consumables like wheels and brakes is substantial. By facilitating easier access to these upgrades, Collins is aggressively targeting the long-tail revenue of the C-130 program.

Market Context

The C-130 Hercules remains one of the most ubiquitous military aircraft in history. Having been in production and service since 1954, the global fleet is a mix of older C-130H models and newer C-130J “Super Hercules” variants. As these fleets age, operators face rising maintenance costs and the need for modernization.

Upgrading legacy systems with modern carbon brakes allows nations to extend the service life of their existing aircraft without the capital expenditure required for new airframes. These distribution agreements ensure that the necessary hardware is positioned closer to the operators, reducing downtime and maintaining the operational tempo of this global workhorse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key benefits of DURACARB® brakes?

They offer up to 2,000 landings per overhaul compared to 250 for steel brakes, contain 17% fewer parts, and allow for 80% faster tire changes.

Who are the new distributors?

The three partners are Derco (a Lockheed Martin company), S3 AeroDefense, and Integrated Procurement Technologies (IPT).

How many C-130 aircraft are currently in service?

Industry data estimates there are approximately 1,100 active C-130 aircraft operated by over 70 nations worldwide.

Sources

• Collins Aerospace Press Release