C-130 Hercules News

June 18, 2024 (by Stephanie Stinn) - The 2,700th C-130 Hercules has joined the global fleet, marking a significant achievement in tactical airlift. This landmark aircraft is a KC-130J Super Hercules #170282 and is now part of the U.S. Marine Corps Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 fleet at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.
Defined by its unmatched versatility and proven performance, the C-130 Hercules operates out of 70 nations, supporting diverse missions anywhere, anytime. The current production model — the C-130J Super Hercules — is certified for 18 different mission requirements, including aerial refuelling with the KC-130J variant.

"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," said Rod McLean, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business. "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."

Always evolving, continually innovating and ready for what’s next, the Super Hercules leads the charge by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions.