Lockheed Martin Delivers 2,700th C-130 Hercules Tactical Airlifter
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has recently delivered the 2,700th Hercules multi-mission tactical airlifted, expanding the global C-130 fleet’s size, reach, and strength.
This milestone aircraft is a KC-130J Super Hercules tanker, operated by the U.S. Marine Corps Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
Renowned for its proven performance and unmatched versatility, C-130 airlifters are used by operators in 70 countries worldwide to support any mission—anywhere, anytime. The current production model, the C-130J Super Hercules, includes the KC-130J tactical tanker. To date, the C-130J is certified for 18 different mission requirements.
Rod McLean, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business, commented, “The Lockheed Martin team is honoured to deliver this milestone Super Hercules to the U.S. Marine Corps, where it will be part of the largest KC-130J fleet in the world and provide true force amplification across the globe. Not only does this Hercules represent the 2,700th C-130 delivered, but it also reflects the inherent mission and performance adaptability that fuels the C-130’s ongoing relevance.”
The KC-130J sets the global standard for tactical tankers, refuelling the majority of rotary-wing aircraft in operation today and multiple fixed-wing aircraft, including the Lockheed Martin F-35B/C Lightning II fighter aircraft. With its truly tactical design, the KC-130J can fly at slow speeds and low altitudes ideal for refuelling helicopters.
Continuously evolving, innovating, and ready for future missions, the Super Hercules leads the way by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions, including humanitarian operations worldwide. The global C-130J fleet spans 26 operators in 22 nations, with 20+ airworthiness certifications. With nearly 3 million flight hours logged across the global fleet of 540+ C-130Js, the invaluable insights gained from missions in every scenario equip the C-130J for future challenges.