The C-130J is a comprehensive update of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, with new engines, flight deck, and other systems. As of February 2018, 400 C-130J aircraft have been delivered to 17 nations. The C-130J is the newest version of the C-130 Hercules and the only model still in production. Externally similar to the classic Hercules in general appearance, the J-model features considerably updated technology. These differences include new Rolls-Royce AE 2100 D3 turboprop engines with Dowty R391 composite scimitar propellers, digital avionics (including head-up displays (HUDs) for each pilot), and reduced crew requirements. These changes have improved performance over its C-130E/H predecessors, such as 40% greater range, 21% higher maximum speed, and 41% shorter takeoff distance.[6] The J-model is available in a standard-length or stretched -30 variant. As a cargo and airlift aircraft, the C-130J's crew includes two pilots and one loadmaster (no navigator or flight engineer), while specialized USAF variants (e.g., AC-130J, EC-130J, MC-130J, HC-130J, WC-130J) may have larger crews. The Royal Australian Air Force was the second international customer for the C-130J-30, with an initial order of twelve aircraft. An additional order for two more aircraft was planned, but replaced by the purchase of a fifth Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. Capacity: 92 passengers (128 for C-130J-30) or 64 airborne troops (92 for C-130J-30) or 6 pallets (8 pallets for C-130J-30) or 74 litter patients with 5 medical personnel (97 litters for C-130J-30) 2–3 Humvees, or 1 LAV III (with turret removed) or an M113 armored personnel carrier To read more about the C-130J and the air forces using it, plus the 13 variants, click here. Specifications below are for the base model C-130J.
