U.S. Navy designates E-130J as Phoenix II for TACAMO mission, replacing E-6B Mercury fleet

US Navy unveils name of new Hercules-based ‘Doomsday plane’

The US Navy has officially named its next-generation Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission aircraft the E-130J Phoenix II, marking a new chapter in the service’s nuclear command and control capabilities. The announcement was made by the US Navy’s Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) and Strategic Communications Wing 1 (SCW-1). The “Phoenix II” name evokes the mythical bird that is reborn from its as…

E-130J Popular NameAannounced for TACAMO Mission Aircraft

The E-130J received its popular name designation, Phoenix II, in August 2025. The Phoenix II will be the Navy’s new Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) mission aircraft for decades to come. (Artist Rendering)  Release From Naval Air Systems Command NAS Patuxent River, Md. — The U.S. Navy’s Airborne Strategic Command, Control and Communications Program Office (PMA-271) and Strategic Communications Wing 1 (SCW-1) announced the official popular name …

U.S. Navy designates E-130J as Phoenix II for TACAMO mission, replacing E-6B Mercury fleet

Originally designated as E-XX, the aircraft received its formal name, E-130J, in October 2024. The Phoenix II name symbolises rebirth and renewal, reflecting the aircraft’s role in revitalising a mission once carried out by the EC-130Q from 1963 to 1993.     The E-130J Phoenix II will replace the ageing E-6B Mercury fleet in its role supporting the TACAMO mission. TACAMO ensures vital communication links between the president, secretary of defen…