A Reliable Workhorse Since The 1960s
As mentioned, Indonesia has long been a loyal operator of multiple C-130 military transport aircraft variants, which Lockheed Martin developed primarily for the US Air Force in the early 1950s.
After its introduction into service with the US Air Force, other countries showed interest in procuring the military aircraft as it demonstrated its versatility and reliability in different missions, including cargo and troop transport, aerial refueling, and search and rescue operations. It also played a vital role in peacekeeping support around the Indo-Pacific region.
Indonesia has been using several variants of the C-130 Hercules, including the C-130Hs and C-130Bs. The service has used C-130Hs primarily for transport missions, including airlifting troops, cargo, and humanitarian aid to remote areas in the country.
Moreover, the aircraft have been used for disaster relief efforts, such as in the aftermath of the 2018 Lombok earthquake. Meanwhile, the C-130B models are used for special missions, such as aerial refueling, electronic warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. These aircraft have been modified with various sensors and equipment to support these missions.
The Extended C-130J Model
The C-130J-30 is an extended model of the renowned C-130J transport aircraft. By extending the fuselage by 15 feet, the C-130J-30 can accommodate two additional pallets of equipment, increasing the available space in the freight compartment.
For its technical specifications, the Super Hercules is a four-engine turboprop aircraft with a maximum takeoff of 164,000 pounds (74,393 kilograms) and can carry up to 44,000 lbs (19,958 kg), or about 128 fully equipped combat troops or 92 paratroopers.
The C-130J-30 Super Hercules has a length of over 112 feet (34.69 meters) and a wingspan of around 132 ft (40 m) and is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 turboprop engines, each providing up to 4,700 horsepower. It can operate at a maximum speed of 356 knots true airspeed (410 mph) and has a range of 1,956 miles (1,700 nautical miles). In addition, the extended Super Hercules can operate up to a ceiling of 26,000 ft (8,000 m), carrying a payload of 44,500 lbs (20,227 kg).
According to Lockheed, the C-130J-30 Super Hercules became a preferred option for tactical airlift worldwide, with 26 operators in 22 countries—including the US, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, among many others—relying on it. With over 520 C-130Js delivered, it remains unparalleled in its capacity to meet 18 unique mission demands.
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Looking to delve deeper into this iconic and versatile airlifter? Check out C-130 Hercules: A History by Martin W Bowman here!
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