CAMP DWYER, Afghanistan, April 5 (UPI) -- U.S. Marines in Afghanistan are using Lockheed's KC-130J aerial refueler and troop and cargo transporter as a ground support combat aircraft.
Called the Harvest Hawk weapons system, the aircraft is outfitted with a version of the target sight sensor used on the AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter as well as a complement of four AGM-114 Hellfire and 10 Griffin missiles, a modular, precision-guided missile system typically employed on unmanned aerial vehicles.
The system expands the role of the KC-130J for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) beyond its traditional level of support to include close air support against enemy positions and providing surveillance to disrupt improvised explosive device emplacements, the Marines said.
Even with its expanded capabilities, the aircraft retains its original capabilities in refueling and transportation since the weapons system can be removed in less than a day if necessary.
The Harvest Hawk first saw service in Afghanistan in late last year.
In addition to its standard complement of officer and enlisted crew, the Harvest Hawk equipped KC-130J is manned by two fire control officers to monitor and control the weapons and surveillance systems, the Marines said.
