Israel receives upgraded C-130 transport

TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- The Israeli Air Force reports that it has received its first C-130H Hercules transport it had modernized by Elbit Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries.

The aircraft has new radar, digital screens, advanced systems and a new main wing.

The IAF said the upgrades will help keep the plane flying for decades.

"We celebrate the completion of the process and the beginning of the meaningful period of integration," said Brig. Lihu Hacohen, the commander of Nevatim Airbase, during a ceremony celebrating the improved C-130. "We are going out on a new road, with a new and better fighting aircraft."

Added an unidentified Israeli Air Force lieutenant colonel in charge of a C-130 squadron: "With the improved C-130 we can perform our missions in a better, simpler way. We get excellent aircraft with high operational capabilities.

"At the end of the day we will have a strong squadron which flies highly advanced planes. We assume that the C-130 will fly until 2040 and even further."