MARIETTA, Ga., Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin has filed for a type design update with the Federal Aviation Administration for a civil-certified variant of its C-130J airlifter.
The civil variant of the Super Hercules will be designated the LM-100J -- the first civilian model of a C-130 since the L-100, which was produced between 1964 and 1992.
"The LM-100J is a natural expansion of the Super Hercules family," said George Shultz, Lockheed's vice president and general manager for its C-130 programs. "It is a modern answer to the existing, multitasked L-100 airlift fleet which, true to Hercules form, is a workhorse that has been a critical cargo asset for 40 years."
"Our customers and legacy L-100 operators tell us that the best replacement for an L-100 is an advanced version of the same aircraft. The LM-100J is that aircraft."
The LM-100J will perform as a multi-purpose air freighter, particularly ideal for delivery of bulk and oversize cargoes.
"With the LM-100J, we are leveraging the proven technology and capabilities of the C-130J Super Hercules to offer a modern, flexible commercial aircraft that is ready to deliver freight and support critical civilian missions -- anywhere, anytime," said Jack Crisler, vice president for business development for the company's air mobility, special operations and maritime programs.
