REPORT ON CREW REQUIREMENTS OF WC–130J AIRCRAFT.

SEC. 598. REPORT ON CREW REQUIREMENTS OF WC–130J AIRCRAFT. (a) Study.—The Secretary of the Air Force shall conduct a study of the crew requirements for WC–130J aircraft to be procured for assignment to the aerial weather reconnaissance mission involving the eyewall penetration of tropical cyclones. The study shall include study of the anticipated operation of WC–130J aircraft in weather reconnaissance missions configured to carry five crewmembers, including a navigator. In carrying out the study, the Secretary shall provide for participation by members of the Armed Forces currently assigned to units engaged in weather reconnaissance operations. (b) Report.—The Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the results of the study. The Secretary shall include in the report the views of members of the Armed Forces currently assigned to units engaged in weather reconnaissance operations who participated in the study. If as a result of the study the Secretary determines that there are crewmembers assigned to weather reconnaissance duties in excess of the crew requirements that will be applicable for WC–130J aircraft, the Secretary shall include in the report a plan for retraining or reassignment of those crewmembers. The study shall be submitted not later than September 30, 1998.