IAF C-130 J Aircraft

IAF C-130 J Aircraft mind map
Recent News
Night Landing at Kargil
Date
January 7, 2024
Where
Kargil airstrip
Altitude
Exceeding 8,800 feet
Significance
Demonstrates IAF's capability
In challenging environments
Strategic terrain masking techniques
Aircraft Type
Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules
When
First Flight
April 5, 1996
Introduction
1999
Why
Military transport
Aerial refuelling
What
Manufacturer
Lockheed Martin
Characteristics
Four-engine turboprop
Military transport aircraft
Update of Lockheed C-130 Hercules
Features
New engines
Flight deck
Other systems
Performance Improvements
40% greater range
21% higher max speed
41% shorter takeoff distance
Design
Similar to classic Hercules
New technology
Rolls-Royce AE 2100 engines
Dowty R391 propellers
Digital avionics
Head-up displays
Where
National Origin
United States
Global Presence
26 operators
In 22 countries
Who
Primary Users
United States Air Force
United States Marine Corps
Royal Air Force (historical)
Indian Air Force
Purchased six C-130J-30s
For special operations forces
Cost up to US$1.059 billion
Under Foreign Military Sales
Option for six more aircraft
Indigenously added equipment

The IAF C-130 J Aircraft, a variant of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, is a notable four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. It has been recently highlighted for its historic night landing at the Kargil airstrip on January 7, 2024. This event was significant as it demonstrated the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities in challenging environments, particularly at an altitude exceeding 8,800 feet. The aircraft, introduced in 1999 and developed from the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, is known for its improved performance, including a 40% greater range, 21% higher maximum speed, and a 41% shorter takeoff distance compared to its predecessors. The C-130J has been adopted by 26 operators in 22 countries globally, with the Indian Air Force purchasing six C-130J-30s for its special operations forces, with an option for six additional aircraft.