C-130J SUPER Hercules

Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Super Hercules is the world’s most advanced military airlifter. Designed specifically as a multi-role, multi-mission aircraft, the C-130J is equally at home for both tactical and a large range of strategic missions. The design builds on Lockheed Martin’s experience of over 45 years of delivering military transport aircraft to more than 60 of the world’s air forces.

Similar in appearance to earlier models of the Hercules, the C-130J is virtually an all-new aircraft. Major improvements include a state-of-the-art, computer-controlled digital flight deck - designed for two-pilot operation and equipped with twin mission computers. New, more powerful, digitally-controlled Rolls-Royce engines, fitted with Dowty Aerospace advanced technology six-bladed composite propellers, enable the C-130J to fly much further, faster and higher than previous models. The C-130J is also the world’s first military transport aircraft to have a head-up display certified as the primary flight instrument for all stages of flight.

With proven military durability and reliability, the C-130J is at least 15% more fuel-efficient than previous models. In addition, improved technologies drastically reduce the requirements for maintenance and logistic support. The substantially lower through-life costs of owning and operating the C-130J make it the natural choice for any air force demanding an affordable multi-role transport capability.

The RAF, as lead customer for the new aircraft, has taken delivery of twenty-five C-130Js. The first was delivered to RAF Lyneham in November 1999. The last was delivered on 21st June 2001. Two variants were ordered: 10 standard C-130J aircraft; and 15 ‘stretched’ C-130J-30s. The latter are 180 inches longer and have an increased load carrying volume within a comfortable payload of over 40,000lbs. The RAF trains its C-130J crews in a purpose-built school house, which was also supplied by Lockheed Martin. This contains two full motion dynamic mission simulators. Since entering service, the RAF's C-130Js have been used in a variety of operational missions including action in the former Yugoslavia, Afghanistan and Iraq.

British industry participation in the world-wide C-130J programme is substantial. The supply chain for C-130J regularly extends to some 150 UK companies, contributions to the programme being made from all sectors of the aerospace industry from SME’s to the largest multi-nationals. UK-owned companies provide over 20% of the value of each C-130J that rolls off the production line. The UK C-130J Industrial Participation programme has to date provided approximately £1billion of business to UK Aerospace and Defence contractors, supporting in excess of 18,000 man years of employment.

Collectively, the UK industrial team is known as the UK C-130J Industrial Support Group and includes companies such as Rolls-Royce (engines), GKN Westland Aerospace (engine nacelles), Goodrich (digital engine controls) and Smiths Aerospace, including Dowty Propellers (power generation and distribution propellers). Over £740M in C-130J-related business has been placed directly with Lockheed Martin’s British industrial partners and suppliers to date. Further sales will increase this figure.

Other air forces currently operating the C-130J are the Royal Australian Air Force, the Italian Air Force, the Royal Danish Air Force, the United States Air Force, the United States Air National Guard and Reserve, the United States Coast Guard and the United States Marine Corps. To date, 180 aircraft have been ordered and over 120 delivered. The market forecast for additional worldwide C-130J sales over the next 20 years is in excess of 300 aircraft.

Building on success – C-130J – the world’s most advanced military transport aircraft.

Links: C-130J Factsheet