C-130 setting new standards

MARIETTA, Ga., Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin began final assembly on the HC/MC-130J Hercules fleet to replace the aging HC-130 fleet serving in operations with the U.S. Air Force.

The U.S. Air Force contracted Lockheed Martin to build the HC/MC-130J Special Mission Hercules to replace aging Combat Search and Rescue HC-130s and Air Force Special Operations MC-130s.

Lockheed Martin based its latest line of the HC/HC-130J, which the company sees as an industry benchmark, on the KC-130J tanker baseline.

"Again we see the C-130 setting new standards for mission flexibility," said Ross Reynolds, vice president of Lockheed Martin C-130 programs.

The latest version of the C-130 uses enhanced sensors, wing systems and other modifications to expand its versatility and mission life cycle.

The C-130J is engaged in multiple combat theaters, deployed in wartime, peacekeeping and humanitarian missions for 10 national militaries.

"As demand for the C-130J continues to grow around the world, we will see more and more the way this aircraft can meet the demands of any operator and mission," said Reynolds.