The C-130 Hercules, particularly the C/KC-130T and KC-130J variants, stands as a pivotal medium-sized, multi-role transport aircraft, integral to U.S. Navy operations across the globe. These aircraft are not just transport planes; they are versatile platforms supporting a wide array of critical missions. The Naval Reserve C/KC-130T models are essential for the Navy Unique Fleet Essential Airlift (NUFEA) mission, providing crucial logistical support to forward-deployed naval forces, ensuring the vital “last mile” of supply lines are maintained. Furthermore, Navy Test Wing KC-130Ts play a specialized role in airborne flight testing for various test and evaluation programs, as well as conducting surveillance and clearance missions for Naval Land/Sea Test Ranges. Recognizing the need for modernization, the Navy has upgraded the majority of its legacy four-bladed C/KC-130T aircraft with advanced eight-bladed NP-2000 propeller systems, enhancing their performance and efficiency. While the Marine Corps divested of its KC-130T aircraft in 2021, the legacy of the Hercules continues with the advanced KC-130J Super Hercules.
U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft on the flight line at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. The KC-130J Super Hercules represents a significant advancement in tactical aviation, supporting the U.S. Marine Corps with tactical aerial refueling capabilities for both fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft. Beyond refueling, the KC-130J is highly adaptable, readily configurable for personnel or cargo transport. Currently deployed in various theaters of operation, these aircraft are instrumental in battlefield illumination, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), air delivery of essential cargo, air-land supply operations, and providing crucial air support and reconnaissance for ground Marines. An innovative enhancement to the KC-130J’s capabilities is the Harvest Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit (HAWK). This modular, roll-on/roll-off weapons system transforms the aircraft into a potent close-air support and multi-sensor imagery reconnaissance platform, significantly expanding its operational roles and effectiveness on the modern battlefield.
Fat Albert, a C-130 Hercules aircraft in Blue Angels livery, performing at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Air Show in 2021. Adding to its diverse applications, the C-130J aircraft also serves a unique role as a flight demonstration platform. While officially a Navy asset, this particular aircraft is operated and maintained by a U.S. Marine Corps crew as part of the esteemed U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels. Known as “Fat Albert,” this C-130J showcases the robustness and versatility of the Hercules platform to audiences around the nation, demonstrating its capabilities in support of naval aviation outreach and recruitment efforts.
Versatile Missions and Core Features
The C/KC-130T/J aircraft are designed for a broad spectrum of missions, highlighting their adaptability and importance in military operations. Common missions include the critical aerial delivery of troops and cargo, operations in unimproved landing zones, and emergency evacuation of personnel and essential equipment. They are also vital in search and rescue (SAR) missions, medical evacuations, and humanitarian support operations, showcasing their utility in both combat and peacetime scenarios. As a tactical transport aircraft, the Hercules excels in troop transport, capable of carrying 92 ground troops or 64 paratroopers along with their equipment. Furthermore, in a medical evacuation configuration, it can function as an airborne ambulance, accommodating up to 74 patients on stretchers with accompanying medical attendants, making it an invaluable asset for rapid medical response.
General Specifications: C/KC-130T vs. KC-130J
| Feature | C/KC-130T | KC-130J |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Aerial refueling, tactical airlift | Aerial refueling, tactical airlift |
| Contractor | Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company | Lockheed Martin |
| Unit Cost | Average $44.1 million | $78.3M – $83M |
| Propulsion | Four Allison T-56-A-16 engines | Four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines |
| Propellers | Four-bladed (initially), eight-bladed NP-2000 (modernized) | Four 6-bladed Dowty R391 propellers |
| Length | 97 feet 9 inches (29.3 meters) | 97 feet 9 inches (29.3 meters) |
| Height | 38 feet 3 inches (11.4 meters) | 38 feet 3 inches (11.4 meters) |
| Wingspan | 132 feet 7 inches (39.7 meters) | 132 feet 7 inches (39.7 meters) |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 155,000 pounds (69,750 kg) | 165,000 pounds (74,389 kg) |
| Airspeed | 374 mph (604.4 kmh) at 20,000 feet | 417 mph (670 km/h) at 22,000 feet (estimated) |
| Ceiling | 33,000 feet (with 100,000 lbs payload) | 28,000 feet (typical cruise altitude) |
| Range | 2,350 miles (max payload) | 2,830 miles (max payload, estimated) |
| Crew | KC-130T Five, C-130T Four | C/KC-130J Three |
Conclusion
The C-130 Hercules transport plane, in its C/KC-130T and KC-130J iterations, remains a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ air operations. Its remarkable versatility, robust design, and continuous upgrades ensure its continued relevance in a wide spectrum of military and humanitarian missions. From tactical airlift and aerial refueling to specialized roles in testing, reconnaissance, and even flight demonstration, the Hercules platform exemplifies a true workhorse of naval aviation, projecting American power and providing critical support wherever it is needed.
Point of Contact
For further information, please contact:
Naval Air Systems Command Public Affairs
47123 Buse Road B2272, Suite 162 Patuxent River, MD 20670-5440
PEO(A) Public Affairs (301) 757-1719
