The 2,700th C-130 Transport Aircraft is for the US Marine Corps

Lockheed Martin Delivers Multi-Purpose Transport Aircraft with Aerial Refueling Capability

Lockheed Martin has delivered the 2,700th C-130 Hercules multipurpose tactical transport aircraft to the U.S. Marine Corps.

Lockheed Martin's C-130 Hercules multipurpose tactical transport aircraft. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)

According to Lockheed Martin on the 20th, the 2,700th aircraft is a KC-130J Super Hercules, which is scheduled to be operated by the U.S. Marine Corps Air Refueler 252nd Transport Squadron at the Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point, North Carolina.

The C-130 is a best-selling aircraft operated by 70 countries worldwide, including the United States, France, Italy, Japan, Taiwan, and Israel. In particular, the latest model, the C-130J Super Hercules, is operated by 26 military forces in 22 countries around the world, including the Republic of Korea Air Force.

First flown in 1954, the C-130 has evolved through continuous performance upgrades to the current C-130J. Especially, the KC-130J delivered this time is the global standard for tactical aerial refueling aircraft, capable of refueling most rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters) currently in operation, as well as various fixed-wing aircraft including Lockheed Martin’s stealth fighters F-35 B and C.

Rod McLean, Vice President of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility and Maritime Missions business segment, said, "Lockheed Martin is honored to deliver this historic Super Hercules to the U.S. Marine Corps," adding, "The Super Hercules being delivered this time will become part of the world’s largest KC-130J fleet, providing a true power enhancement worldwide."

Vice President McLean also added, "This Hercules, being the 2,700th C-130 delivered, is symbolic, but it is also meaningful in highlighting the unique mission and performance adaptability that supports the significant role of the C-130."