Lockheed Martin reached a major milestone with the delivery of its 400th C-130J Super Hercules aircraft this week.
The delivered aircraft is an MC-130J Commando II Special Operations aircraft that will be assigned to the US Air Force’s Special Operations Command (AFSOC).
The C-130J Super Hercules is the current production model of the legendary C-130 Hercules aircraft, with operators in 17 nations. To date, the global fleet of C-130Js has surpassed more than 1.7 million flight hours supporting almost any mission requirement — any time, any place say Lockheed.
“We celebrate this accomplishment with our employees, industry partners and the Super Hercules operator community that spans 17 countries,” said George Shultz, vice president and general manager, Air Mobility & Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin.
“These first 400 C-130Js meet a global demand for the proven performance and unmatched versatility found only in a Super Hercules. Its durability, relevancy and capability will continue to set the C-130J apart as the world’s choice in tactical airlift for decades to come.
The C-130J is defined by its versatility. To date, the C-130J supports 17 different mission configurations to include transport (military and commercial), firefighting, search and rescue, Special Operations, weather reconnaissance, and aerial refuelling.”
This aircraft has another distinction in addition to being the 400th C-130J delivered: it is the 13th MC-130J to be converted into an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship. It will be assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The AC-130J is a highly modified C-130J that provides close-air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance.
The US government operates the largest C-130J Super Hercules fleet in the world. This delivery represents the US government’s continued transition to the C-130J as the common platform across Air Mobility Command, AFSOC, Air Combat Command, US Coast Guard and US Marine Corps. The Air National Guard and Reserve still operate a mixed fleet of C-130J and legacy aircraft.
Great aircraft -no doubt about it
When the C130 first entered service with the USAF the RAF started receiving its first Blackburn Beverley transport aircraft. One of the worst British aircraft ever to see service with the RAF.
C130 one of the greatest military aircraft ever to have flown, along with B52, Canberra and Boeing 135 ( I know it’s 707 airframe) all of whom served continuously with the primary user for over 50 years.
According to Flight International the B52 will remain in service when the new B21 is introduced, they are going to scrap the B1 and B2 instead. That will mean the B52 will see over 100 years of continuous service with the USAF, a remarkable aircraft.
I flew the aussie hercs and then the short lived L-1011’s. I’m envious of “Fat Albert” having an active lifespan so long. Long may their props claw the air up there!
Cheers all, MarcMacD.