Türkiye to acquire 12 ex-RAF C130J Super Hercules aircraft

Türkiye is reportedly set to purchase 12 Super Hercules C-130J-30 transport aircraft previously operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF), bolstering its tactical airlift capabilities.

Deal overview, aircraft details

The deal involves 12 of the 15 Super Hercules aircraft that have been in storage at Cambridge, U.K., since their retirement in June 2022.

The aircraft includes the stretched fuselage C-130J-30 model, known as Hercules C4 in RAF designation, which provides greater transport capacity and operational flexibility because of its aerial refueling capacity.

The Super Hercules models, built by Lockheed Martin, are widely used for military transport, humanitarian aid, and medical evacuation missions. The aircraft offers advanced avionics, enhanced flight performance, and lower operational costs compared to earlier models.

Key specifications of the C-130J-30:

Length: 39.7 meters

Payload capacity: Up to 27,216 kilograms

Maximum range: Approximately 5,200 kilometers

Compatibility with Türkiye’s transport fleet

The Turkish Air Force (TurAF) currently operates C-130B and C-130E models, acquiring the C-130J-30, is a logical choice. Familiarity with the platform’s maintenance and logistics infrastructure will streamline integration into Türkiye’s fleet.

The acquisition raises questions about the future of the 222 Filo’s current Hercules fleet, which has been undergoing upgrades under the locally developed ERCIYES modernization program.

At least one airframe from the existing fleet will likely be repurposed for spare parts instead of receiving a scheduled upgrade.

Tactical and strategic impact

The addition of these newer aircraft will:

Enhance Türkiye’s tactical airlift capacity.

Reduce reliance on older platforms with higher maintenance costs.

Complement Türkiye’s existing Airbus A400M fleet, easing its operational burden.

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