The new Super Hercules jets will enhance the capabilities of the PAF expanding humanitarian, military, and disaster relief efforts aligning with 21 other nations that use the Super Hercules jet.
Lockheed Martin and The Republic of the Philippines Department of National Defense have announced the acquisition of three C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters from Lockheed Martin, solidifying their position as a long-standing C-130 operator. These new Super Hercules aircraft are set to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and expand their humanitarian, military, and disaster relief efforts. The C-130J-30 is a proven workhorse in the world of tactical airlift, with a reputation for delivering exceptional performance and reliability even in challenging environmental and geographic conditions. This acquisition aligns the Philippines with 21 other nations that rely on the Super Hercules for their tactical airlift missions.
Scheduled for delivery in 2026, the C-130J-30 offers the PAF increased power, range, and 15 additional feet of cargo space compared to the standard C-130J. These features will be crucial in helping PAF crews meet the evolving tactical mission requirements in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Philippine Air Force crews have long demonstrated what the C-130 is designed to do: go everywhere — in any condition — to deliver hope and help where it’s needed most,” said Rod McLean, Vice President and General Manager of Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business, Lockheed Martin. “It is an honor to continue serving the Philippines with the most advanced and capable C-130 ever produced. The Super Hercules provides the Philippine Air Force with unmatched interoperability and capability, supporting challenging mission requirements across the Pacific region,” he further added.
The acquisition of the C-130J fleet not only enhances the capabilities of the Philippine Air Force but also integrates them into a global network of Super Hercules operators. This move offers the PAF enhanced commonality among allied partners, access to international support, an active supply chain, innovative upgrade opportunities, and the chance for collaborative training with other C-130J operators worldwide.
Additionally, the PAF’s existing knowledge of Hercules aircraft and infrastructure ensures a seamless transition between airframes, avoiding the complexities and costs associated with introducing an entirely new aircraft variant into a fleet.
The C-130J Super Hercules, known for its versatility and performance, is the established standard in tactical airlift. With 26 operators across 22 nations, it has proven its worth in diverse mission variants. Lockheed Martin’s delivery of over 525 C-130J Super Hercules aircraft solidifies its role as a leader in providing aircraft that can complete missions anywhere, anytime.
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This strategic move by the Philippines Department of National Defense to acquire the C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft underlines their commitment to enhancing their capabilities and serving their nation’s needs, both in times of crisis and for their evolving tactical mission requirements. The addition of these aircraft will undoubtedly bolster their role in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthen their position as a key player in humanitarian and military endeavors.
