WASHINGTON (AP) - Rep. John Carney of Delaware says his plan to modernize the fleet of C-130 cargo planes at Dover Air Force Base has been included in a major defense spending bill.
Earlier this year, Carney introduced a less expensive modernization proposal for the cargo planes. They need to be upgraded before 2020 or they'll become inoperable because of federal and international safety regulations.
The Delaware Democrat has been calling for just the navigation systems of the aircraft to be modernized, at a savings of $12 million per aircraft.
Carney's office said Wednesday that under the language of the defense bill, the Air Force will have the option to use his cheaper plan or to go ahead with more extensive renovations. The House is expected to vote on the bill on Thursday.
