C-130 Hercules news

Bolivian C-130 transporting cash crash lands near La Paz

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST

February 28, 2026 (by Asif Shamim) - At least 20 people were killed and more than 30 injured after a C-130H #FAB-81 operated by the Bolivian Air Force crash landed near El Alto International Airport on Friday evening, authorities confirmed.

FABo TAB C-130H #FAB-81 wreckage at La Paz after the aircraft came off the runway at El Alto International Airport on February 27, 2026. [ Photo from social media]

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules was attempting to land at approximately 18:15h local time in poor weather conditions when it overshot the runway and veered off course. The aircraft departed from Santa Cruz de la Sierra and was approaching the airport serving the administrative capital, La Paz, when the incident occurred.

After leaving the runway, the aircraft slid onto Costanera Avenue, striking several vehicles before coming to rest. Emergency crews responded quickly and extinguished a fire that broke out following the impact. The number of fatalities includes victims on the ground as well as those connected to the flight, though officials have not yet released a detailed breakdown.

The plane was transporting newly printed currency for the Central Bank of Bolivia. The crash scattered banknotes across the roadway, leading to chaotic scenes as bystanders attempted to collect the bills from the debris. Authorities later stated that the currency had not yet entered circulation and therefore held no legal value.

Flights at the airport were temporarily suspended as investigators began examining the cause of the crash. Military officials confirmed that a formal inquiry is underway to determine whether weather, runway conditions, or other technical factors contributed to the accident.

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

FABo TAB C-130H #FAB-81 is seen taxiing at Santiago de Chile Arturo Merino Benítez Int'l on November 15, 2018. [Photo by Issan Alekxey Valenzuela]

Lockheed Martin to Deliver Advanced C-130J Training Devices to the RAAF

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST

February 18, 2026 (by Christopher Karns) - Lockheed Martin announced that it has been awarded a foreign military sale contract through Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to deliver C-130J training devices and upgrades to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

Deliveries are slated to begin in 2029 and will include two Weapon Systems Trainers, an Enhanced Integrated Cockpit Systems Trainer (EICS), Loadmaster Part‑Task Trainer, and upgrades to the RAAF’s Virtual Simulation and Virtual Maintenance Trainers.

“We’re honored to continue our long-standing partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force to enhance and expand their training capabilities,” said Todd Morar, vice president of Air and Commercial Systems at Lockheed Martin. “As the original equipment manufacturer of the C‑130J, our knowledge of the aircraft and its operational flight program enable us to provide the most authentic, mission‑ready training tools available, preparing Australian aircrews to master the aircraft on day one.”

The new training devices feature cutting‑edge graphics, motion cueing and high‑fidelity cockpit replication that mirror the operational C‑130J. The devices are built for concurrency with the RAAF’s upcoming C‑130J‑30 acquisitions, enabling rapid fielding of new capabilities.

Lockheed Martin Australia’s Director of Global Training Systems, Peter Ashworth, said, “Our focus is preparing a mission-ready future force through the use of advanced technologies that reduce risk, cost and timelines, while improving capability to give Defence an operational edge.”

“Lockheed Martin Australia looks forward to supporting the Royal Australian Air Force with its C-130J training requirements to ensure RAAF personnel are equipped with the critical skills needed to achieve the mission.”

The RAAF has been a leader in C‑130 operations since 1958 and currently operates a fleet of 12 C‑130J‑30 Super Hercules aircraft. Under a 2022 Foreign Military Sale agreement, the United States approved the sale of up to 24 additional C‑130J‑30 airlifters. In July 2023, Australia exercised that option, formally acquiring 20 new C‑130J‑30 aircraft to replace and augment its existing fleet. The first of these aircraft is expected to arrive in 2028, expanding the RAAF’s tactical‑airlift capability and supporting No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond.

Courtesy of Lockheed Martin Corporation

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Wyoming ANG brings combat-ready training to Sentry Aloha 26-1

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST

February 4, 2026 (by SrA Michael Swingen) - Clouds crumbled away behind the C-130 Hercules from the Wyoming Air National Guard as it banked southwest, revealing a suddenness of sea. The chain of islands in the distance slowly grew upon the water as the aircraft approached Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Oahu, Hawaii.

The aircrew of a C-130H with the 153rd AW, flies over the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii during Sentry Aloha 26-1, on January 8, 2026. [ANG photo by SrA Michael Swingen]

Descending almost 1,000 feet per minute in its final approach, the C-130 Hercules touched down on the flightline with a spray of dirt, sand and rubber dust that leapt from beneath the wheels. On board, the Airmen had traveled more than 3,300 miles from home.

The Wyoming Air National Guard had come to participate in Sentry Aloha 26-1, the latest iteration of Sentry Aloha, a recurring, large-scale training exercise in the Hawaiian Islands. From Jan. 14-28, Sentry Aloha 26-1 involved approximately 1,000 personnel and more than 40 aircraft from seven states, enhancing readiness, interoperability and integration across U.S. and partner air forces. The Wyoming Air National Guard used the exercise to become certified for future deployments as well.

The training included personnel airdrops with the 25th Air Support Operations Squadron and the 4th Marine Reconnaissance Battalion. On Jan. 21, a C-130 Hercules touched down at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, loading up the parachute jumpers. The C-130 Hercules orbited the island. Soon the rear cargo door opened, letting in a wash of rushing air. The Airmen and the Marines, their flight suits rippling against their arms and shins, prepared to jump from 15,000 feet above ground.

Performing high-altitude, low-opening (HALO) and static-line operations, the parachute jumpers poured out the back of the C-130 Hercules in free fall. Lines streamed upward from their packs, blossoming into canopies across the dawn sky. The parachute jumpers steered themselves in wide arcs above the drop zone, descending until they finally floated across the tall grasses before landing in a bundle of nylon and cords.

The training allowed three navigators with the Wyoming Air National Guard to become certified in HALO personnel airdrops.

Other scenarios and training during Sentry Aloha 26-1 included maintenance and logistics teams responding to simulated fuel spills and contaminated aviation fuel. Communication teams restored network connectivity after a cyberattack. Vehicle maintenance resolved mechanical breakdowns. Medical teams evacuated personnel from downrange operations as well.

Adding a layer of complexity, Airmen conducted some of the training in full chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear, or CBRN, gear. Even during an airdrop along the North Shore of Oahu, the aircrew wore CBRN gear. Their faces were sealed behind masks that fogged over with breath, while heavy rubber gloves gripped the control stick and turned the dials in the cockpit of the C-130 Hercules. After they returned to base and landed the aircraft, they walked across the flightline under the noonday sun while still in CBRN gear from head to toe.

“CBRN gear forces you to strip down the tasks of your job to the basics because it limits your mobility and dexterity,” Tech. Sgt. Jenna Holyfield, an aircrew flight equipment specialist with the Wyoming Air National Guard, said.

Along with other members of her team, Holyfield decontaminated Airmen during a simulated chemical attack. The aircrew at last reached the decontaminated site next to the hangar, where Holyfield instructed them to slowly peel off their CBRN gear and deposit it carefully in a barrel.

“When we were decontaminating the aircrew, it’s the difference between life and death in a real-world scenario,” Holyfield said. “It was a reminder that our job matters.” Intelligence teams provided situational awareness during Sentry Aloha 26-1. Chaplains sustained morale.

“This training is critical to our readiness, and our Airmen executed with precision and focus,” U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Tony Silva Jr., the commander of operations during Sentry Aloha 26-1, said. “Their ability to train in a total force and joint force environment is what keeps us prepared for real-world challenges.”

Silva said the moment that stood out most came when the exercise faced an unexpected, real-world challenge.

“We lost all of our scheduled airlift,” Silva said. “We had planned for additional airlift support to assist with transporting a substantial amount of cargo and personnel, as well as to facilitate the movement of our equipment. But when that airlift support fell through, it forced us to completely revise our plans.”

Instead of slowing the operation, the loss of airlift forced Airmen from the Wyoming Air National Guard to adapt in real time.

“What impressed me most was how the team responded,” Silva said. “They were suddenly faced with the challenge of moving all of our cargo on their own and executing multiple maximum-effort airlifts to get our equipment into a simulated area of operations.”

Silva emphasized that the mission was completed without outside assistance.

“We did it organically,” he said. “We moved ourselves, established operations, and still executed the exercise as planned. That level of adaptability and problem-solving wasn’t anticipated, but our Airmen made it happen.”

For Silva, the experience highlighted the unit’s culture and commitment.

On Jan. 22, pilots from the Wyoming Air National Guard took part in a simulated combat exercise with Hawaii-based F-22 Raptor fighter jets and other visiting aircraft from the Wisconsin Air National Guard and the Louisiana Air National Guard.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Mary Greenwood, a public affairs specialist documenting the combat exercise, struggled to raise her arm due to high G-forces when the C-17 Globemaster III banked sharply during a defensive maneuver.

After a while, the rear cargo door of the aircraft opened midflight, revealing a sky terraced with white clouds, the sea below. Between them, two F-22A Raptor fighter jets, an F-35A Lightning II fighter jet, a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, and a C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft all flew in a VIC formation, a classic V-shaped military aircraft tactic, trailing the C-17 Globemaster III.

The C-130 Hercules from the Wyoming Air National Guard was the tip of the spear in the formation, wedging apart sky and sea as they flew.

“The training over the two weeks was a relentless effort,” Silva said. “Everyone was all in. Our Airmen ran multiple missions, adjusted on the fly, and refused to let obstacles stop them. That’s what readiness looks like.”

Sentry Aloha 26-1 concluded successfully, demonstrating the Wyoming Air National Guard’s ability to coordinate and respond effectively across multiple scenarios in a joint, multifaceted environment, equipping Airmen with the skill sets necessary to fly, fight and win.

Courtesy of 153rd Airlift Wing

Related articles:

()
Turkey Vulture blamed for F-16 crash (2000-02-13)
Other
News archive for February 2026

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

The MGFE, Maintenance Group with the 153rd Airlift Wing, Wyoming ANG, poses in front of C-130H3s #92-1534 & #92-1537 on the flightline during Sentry Aloha 26-1 on Oahu, Hawaii, January 18, 2026. [ANG photo by SrA Michael Swingen]

Coast Guard takes delivery of 18th mission-ready HC-130J

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 EST

February 4, 2026 (by USCG) - The Coast Guard is completing final delivery activities this week for its 18th fully missionized HC-130J long range surveillance aircraft, designated CGNR 2018, at L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems in Waco, Texas. The aircraft will support the transition of Air Station Sacramento, California, from C-27J aircraft to HC-130Js.

USCG HC-130J #2018 assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Sacramento is seen after being made mission-ready and ready for service as seen on February 4th, 2026. [USCG courtesy photo]

Three Coast Guard air stations currently operate the HC-130J: Elizabeth City, North Carolina; Kodiak, Alaska; and Barbers Point, Hawaii. The addition of CGNR 2018 marks a step toward expanding HC-130J operations to two additional air stations, beginning with Sacramento later this year.

The Coast Guard received $1.142 billion in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) for procurement and acquisition of fixed-wing aircraft, including HC-130Js. The investment, combined with early delivery of CGNR 2018, enables the long-range surveillance fleet to expand operations.

L3Harris executes missionization of the baseline C-130J aircraft, integrating the Minotaur Mission System Suite, Coast Guard-specific multi-mode radar, sensors and communication systems. Additional capabilities, including enhanced approach and landing systems, expanded diagnostics and civil GPS, were integrated as part of a Block Upgrade 8.1 installation.

Including funds from OBBBA, the Coast Guard has appropriations for a total of 25 HC-130J aircraft, one HC-130J simulator, initial spare parts inventory and site activation for two additional air stations.

The HC-130J fleet serves as an on-scene command and control platform or surveillance platform, with the means to detect, classify and identify objects and share information with operational forces. The aircraft has a cruise speed of 320 knots, a range of 4,900 nautical miles and endurance of more than 20 hours.

The missionized HC-130J enables the Coast Guard to control, secure and defend the U.S. border and maritime approaches, facilitate commerce and respond to crises or contingencies.

Courtesy of United States Coast Guard

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Lockheed Martin welcomes Mexico to the C-130J Super Fleet

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:00:00 EST

January 21, 2026 (by Christopher Karns) - The Fuerza Aérea Mexicana (FAM) recently announced the acquisition of their first Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifter, making Mexico the first country in Latin America to operate the C-130J.

A rendering of Mexico's C-130J-30 Super Hercules. Mexico will be the first Latin American country to operate the C-130J.

The FAM's acquisition of the Super Hercules was the first of two international C-130J contract awards to close out in 2025, with the second new international customer yet to be disclosed. In choosing the C-130J-30 Super Hercules, the most advanced Hercules ever built, Mexico joins 24 other nations and a global fleet of more than 560 C-130Js operating today.

A longtime Hercules operator, the FAM is recapitalizing its legacy fleet with the modern C-130J-30 Super Hercules — a decision rooted in five decades of proven C-130 operational performance and existing interoperability between nations.

FAM crews will operate the C-130J-30 Super Hercules — the stretch version of the C-130J that adds 15 feet of cargo space ― marking a new modern era of tactical airlift capability for Mexico and Latin America. With increased power, range, fuel efficiency and space, the C-130J-30 provides the FAM with proven and known capabilities ready to support any tactical mission requirements while leveraging Mexico's decades of C-130 flying, maintenance and logistics experience.

Leveraging their knowledge of the C-130 aircraft and existing infrastructure enables a seamless transition for Mexico, saving significant time, while ensuring sustained fleet readiness and faster modernization through continued access to Lockheed Martin's established global enterprise-wide network.

"This historic decision by Mexico reflects the continued trust placed in the C-130J Super Hercules by operators around the world," said Trish Pagan, vice president of Lockheed Martin's Air Mobility & Maritime Missions. "With their new C-130J-30, the Fuerza Aérea Mexicana's tactical airlift capability will deliver unmatched performance, exceptional reliability, and the versatility to perform all 20 missions the C-130J is certified to execute across Mexico, throughout Latin America, and worldwide. The C-130J-30 is truly built to deliver and built to last."

For more than 50 years, the C-130 Hercules has played a vital role in Mexico's response to natural disasters, military operations and other critical missions. The C-130 is a powerful symbol of Mexico's commitment to regional security and cooperation, and its continued operation is a testament to the strong partnership between Lockheed Martin and the FAM.

Mexico's selection comes amid renewed interest in multi-role airlift capabilities across Latin America. The C-130J Super Hercules provides the FAM operators what no other tactical airlifter can: certified multi-mission versatility, proven operational performance, a true global presence, known capabilities and trusted reliability.

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

United States delivers fourth C-130H to the Tunisian Air Force

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 EST

January 13, 2026 (by Asif Shamim) - The U.S. government celebrated the transfer of a C-130H Hercules aircraft to the Tunisian Air Force in a ceremony at Sidi Ahmed Air Base in Bizerte.

TAF C-130H #Z21016 was seen on handover day to the Tunisian Air Force in a ceremony at Sidi Ahmed Air Base in Bizerte on January 13, 2026. [US Embassy Tunisia photo]

U.S. Ambassador Bill Bazzi joined high-ranking officials from both Tunisia and the United States at the event, including Tunisian Minister of National Defense Khaled Sehili, Chief of Staff of the Tunisian Air Force General Mohammed Hajem, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs Kelli Seybolt, and Brigadier General Shawn Holtz, the Deputy Director of U.S. Africa Command’s Strategy, Engagement, and Programs.

The delivery of this aircraft continues the U.S. government’s commitment to expanding the Tunisian Air Force’s air transport capabilities and furthering the prosperity of the United States defense economic sector. The additional airlift capacity will strengthen Tunisia’s ability to conduct joint and combined exercises, airlift missions, security operations, and rapid response missions across the region.

The United States has partnered with Tunisia, a strategic partner and major non-NATO ally, for more than four decades on C-130 operations, training, and sustainment. This delivery represents another milestone in expanding cooperation between the U.S. and Tunisian Armed Forces.

“This aircraft represents another step forward in the long and trusted partnership between the United States and Tunisia,” said Ambassador Bazzi. “Enhancing Tunisia’s airlift capacity strengthens our shared ability to support regional stability, cooperative security efforts, and humanitarian assistance.”

Courtesy of U.S. Embassy Tunis

Related articles:

Israel requests delay in fighter choice decision (1999-06-06)
Other
News archive for January 2026

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

U.S. Ambassador Bill Bazzi joined by officials from both Tunisia and the United States at the handover event for the fourth C-130H to the Tunisian Air Force. [US Embassy Tunisia photo]

103rd Airlift Wing Completes Major C-130 Fleet Modernization

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 EST

December 23, 2025 (by Capt. Jennifer Kaprielian) - This year marked a major milestone for the Connecticut Air National Guard’s C-130 Hercules fleet as the 103rd Airlift Wing completed both a T-56 Series 3.5 engine upgrade and an NP2000 propeller conversion. The sleek new propeller design has already drawn attention, and as 2025 wraps up, the effort stands out as a significant achievement across the wing.

Airmen from the 103d MXG open hangar doors on a sunny day, revealing a fully modified C-130 Hercules, on June 25, 2025, at East Granby Connecticut. This plane was soon flown overseas by 103d air crews for a six month deployment in the Horn of Africa. [ANG photo by Captain Jen Kaprielian]

The engine and propeller modifications required months of coordination and placed increased demands on both maintenance and flight operations. Compounding the challenge, the unit was tasked with a deployment that would utilize at least half of the wing’s fleet. With the deployment timeline in place, completing the modifications took on a new level of urgency — and our airmen rose to meet the challenge.

To understand the impact of the upgrades, it helps to look at what they bring to the workhorse of the Connecticut Air National Guard, the C-130H. Visually, the NP2000 propeller is immediately noticeable, featuring eight sleek black blades instead of four silver ones. Internally, the 3.5 engine upgrade delivers increased power across a wider range of operating conditions. The results have already been measurable: propeller repair time has been nearly cut in half, fuel efficiency has improved, and the aircraft now produce approximately 10 percent more thrust, reducing takeoff distances. Lower fuel consumption combined with improved performance allows the aircraft to carry more cargo, benefiting both domestic and deployed missions.

Propeller upgrades across the Air Force initially began as a safety initiative, but the NP2000 quickly proved to offer broader benefits for operators and maintainers alike.

“The validated data showed about 30 percent less on-wing maintenance time and 22 percent less time spent repairing the propellers,” said Lt. Col. Doug Ferro, commander of the 103rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “It also produces more thrust, averaging between 10 and 17 percent shorter takeoff distances.”

While the modifications significantly improved capability, they also placed increased demands on 103d scheduling and flight operations. Converting aircraft to the NP2000 propeller required off-station support for installation and airworthiness testing. Aircrews flew each aircraft to a contractor site in Stennis, Mississippi, and conducted functional check flights (FCFs) at each stage of the upgrade to ensure safety and readiness.

The 103rd Operations Group relied on a small team of FCF-qualified pilots and flight engineers to clear each aircraft for return to airworthy status. With only a limited number of aircrew holding this specialized qualification, those members absorbed a substantial increase in flying demands in addition to their normal home-station requirements.

The scheduling challenges within the maintenance hangar were equally complex. The modification timeline shifted frequently, requiring constant coordination across multiple sections. Master Sgt. Lee Morrison, a production superintendent with the 103rd Maintenance Group, played a key role in managing the evolving schedule, according to coworkers. Chief Master Sgt. Dennis Goggin, maintenance operations flight superintendent for the 103rd Maintenance Group, was also instrumental in managing scheduling requirements while simultaneously serving as a unit deployment manager in the lead-up to the deployment.

When asked about the project, Goggin highlighted the support received from the National Guard Bureau after the wing submitted a plan in October 2024.

“We outlined our goal for our 2025 Mission Generation Force Element deployment — to have six aircraft fully modified with 3.5 engines and NP2000 propellers to support a four-ship deployment,” said Goggin. “At the time, we had zero aircraft fully modified.”

Over the next eight months, the wing worked closely with Capt. David Robitaille, a C-130 weapons system manager, and Master Sgt. Steven Sevigny, the propulsion career field functional manager, to make that goal a reality.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we received from A4,” Goggin said. “Capt. Robitaille and Master Sgt. Sevigny supported our goal early and prioritized our fleet at every opportunity. They moved mountains at times to ensure the success of our deployment.”

Numerous Flying Yankees contributed to the success of the conversion effort. While the NP2000 propeller modifications were completed off-site, the 3.5 engine upgrades were performed at home station and relied heavily on 103rd resources and oversight. The 103rd Quality Assurance Office and propulsion maintainers played a critical role, certifying 570 “Red Line” work requirements across 24 engine installations to prepare six aircraft for functional check flights.

“As the primary quality assurance representative, I served as the intermediary between the government contract office and the contractor,” said Master Sgt. Paul Martin, quality assurance chief inspector for the 103rd Maintenance Group. “We ensured all work was conducted and certified to Air Force standards.”

Martin noted that each aircraft was returned within approximately a 10-day window. He credited Tech. Sgt. Kyle Murkowicz and Tech. Sgt. Keaton Cooper for leading hundreds of Red Line inspections, and praised Master Sgt. Jeff McClenning and Master Sgt. Joshua Marvill for resolving foreign object debris issues, completing panel checks, and ensuring tooling accountability. Two aircraft were converted ahead of schedule.

“I think we did an outstanding job utilizing the full capabilities of our maintenance group,” Martin said. “At the time, it felt like we were simply doing our jobs, but looking back at how much we contributed to upgrading our C-130s to maximum performance capability gives all of us a strong sense of pride.”

Goggin emphasized the broader impact of the effort on the wing. “We got four fully modified C-130s downrange,” he said. “Our Airmen executed the mission at the highest level and represented the Flying Yankees extremely well.”

As we enter the new year, keep an eye on the New England skies for one or more of the 103rd Airlift Wing’s newly modernized C-130 aircraft.

Courtesy of 103rd Airlift Wing

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

SSgt. David Hatch, a propulsion technician in the 103d Maintenance Squadron Propulsion Shop, works on an NP2000 propellor for a C-130 Hercules in East Granby, Connecticut, on October 3, 2025. [ANG photo by Captain Jen Kaprielian]

Man o’ War C-130 returns to ‘Old Kentucky Home’ for retirement

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 EST

December 22, 2025 (by Dale Greer) - A military plane named in honor of a famous thoroughbred racehorse has returned to its old Kentucky home for retirement, concluding more than three decades of historic service.

USAF C-130H #91-1231 lands at the Kentucky ANGB in Louisville, on September. 22, 2025, ending the 33-year-old transport’s final flight. The plane, which has flown millions of miles around the world over the past three decades, initially was assigned to the Kentucky Air Guard’s 123rd AW. Named after the famous thoroughbred racehorse “Man o’ War” during its time in Kentucky, tail number 11231 was the 2000th C-130 to roll off the assembly line. It will now be placed on static display for retirement at its original Kentucky home, complete with restored livery and its unique Man o’ War markings. [ANG photo by Dale Greer]

Man o’ War, a C-130H Hercules, arrived at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base on September 22, ending its final flight after traveling millions of miles around the world in support of thousands of missions ranging from combat operations to humanitarian relief.

The cargo aircraft — serial number #91-1231 — began service here in 1992 but has spent the past four years assigned to the Delaware Air Guard. Now, it’s being put out to pasture in Louisville as the Air Force continues a transition to newer models.

Man o’ War was the 2000th C-130 ever produced, rolling off the assembly line at Lockheed-Martin 33 years ago. It was delivered to the Kentucky Air Guard's 123rd Airlift Wing straight from the factory in Marietta, Georgia — one of a dozen Herks the unit received to complete an upgrade from Vietnam-era C-130B airframes.

Befitting a unit based in Louisville, home of the Kentucky Derby, all 12 aircraft were named after legendary racehorses, said Master Sgt. Matt Killen, a dedicated crew chief here. Tail number 1231 was christened by the late U.S. Sen. Wendell Ford, who was instrumental in securing a Congressional appropriation to purchase the stable of airlifters.

Killen was on hand for the plane’s homecoming, marshaling it to its final parking spot on the base flight line. Wing maintainers will soon begin the process of making it ready for static display near operations and maintenance, he said. Engines and other valuable gear will be removed, while livery will be restored to original markings, including Man o’ War insignia and a distinctive tail flash indicating the plane’s historic status as the 2000th Herk.

Man o’ War first arrived in Louisville on May 16, 1992, flown here by a Kentucky aircrew comprised of Lt. Col. David Moreman, Maj. Paul Rhodes, 1st Lt. Kathleen Luken, Tech. Sgt. Jeff Bishop and Staff Sgt. Joe Dawson. During 29 years of service with the wing, 1231 flew 11,040.7 hours around the globe supporting humanitarian missions like hurricane relief in the Caribbean and combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Other missions included Restore Hope, Provide Relief, Provide Promise, Joint Forge and Freedom’s Sentinel.

Man o’ War was transferred to the Delaware Air Guard’s 166th Airlift Wing in 2021 as the Kentucky unit transitioned to the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. Now, Delaware is moving to the J-model as well, necessitating Man o’ War’s retirement.

Although Killen wasn’t a member of the 123rd when tail 1231 first arrived, he spent many years working on the aircraft and became its last dedicated crew chief in 2017.

“I spent 20 years working on all our H-models, but being named the dedicated crew chief for 1231 was quite an honor,” he said. “This airplane has a lot of history.” Killen made sure that history would be remembered. He engraved the special “2000” logo into the backs of flight deck crew seats and made commemorative signage for the navigator’s desk.

“When I first heard that all the H-models we once flew were being sent away from Delaware, I definitely had a knot in my stomach,” Killen recalled. “Then, when I was told 1231 would be coming home, I was beyond ecstatic. “Being the one who got to marshal her in here for the last time is something I can’t put into words,” he added. “I could not be more proud of this airplane, what she’s done, what she’s meant to me.” As Man o’ War rolled to a stop on the tarmac Sept. 22, Killen walked over to the plane’s nose and patted the fuselage, one final recognition for a career well flown and a job well done.

“We spend so much time working on these airplanes, they’re like our kids,” he explained. “Every crew chief will tell you each one has a personality. And whenever they land, I always rub the nose and say, ‘Good job. You got ’em home safely."

“This aircraft really meant something to the wing. Any time people saw it with the 2000 logo and Kentucky markings, they knew they were getting on an airplane that was maintained by the best maintainers on the planet, and they knew they didn’t have to worry. They knew they were going to get where they were going.” Killen, like many other Airmen here, is pleased that Man o’ War was able to cross the finish line where it all began. The final display site will be appropriate, too: a bluegrass field, facing the flight line. “From the Air Force and National Guard Bureau all the way down to the wing, it was decided that Man o’ War needed to come home rather than sit in a boneyard somewhere,” he said. “It’s a fitting tribute to a great aircraft with a great legacy.”

Courtesy of 123rd Airlift Wing

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

Retired 123rd AW aircrew, left, and current Delaware ANG aircrew pose in front of a C-130H #91-1231 that’s being retired for static display at the Kentucky ANGB in Louisville, September 22, 2025. The retirees — from left to right, MSgt. Jeff Bishop, Col. David Moreman and CMSgt. Joe Dawson — were all part of the original crew that flew the plane to Louisville on its maiden flight from the factory. [ANG photo by Phil Speck]

USAF C-130H #91-1231 Man o’ War, first arrives at the Kentucky ANGB in Louisville, on May 16, 1992, piloted by an aircrew from Kentucky’s 123rd AW. Present for the arrival were, left to right, Lt. Col. David Moreman, pilot; 1st Lt. Kathleen Luken, co-pilot; U.S. Sen. Wendell Ford; Lt. Gen. John Conaway, chief of the National Guard Bureau; U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Robert DeZarn, adjutant general of the Kentucky National Guard; Brig. Gen. John Kuhn, assistant adjutant general for Air; Col. Stewart Byrne, commander of the 123rd AW; Maj. Paul Rhodes, navigator; SSgt. Joe Dawson, flight engineer; and TSgt. Jeff Bishop, loadmaster. [ANG file photo]

The navigator’s station on the flight deck of C-130H #91-1231, nicknamed Man o’ War in honor of the famous thoroughbred racehorse, features a unique logo indicating the aircraft’s status as the 2000th Hercules ever to roll off the assembly line at Lockheed-Martin. The plane, which began its career in 1992 with the Kentucky ANG’s 123rd AW, is now being retired for static display at the unit’s base in Louisville — home of the Kentucky Derby. [ANG photo by Dale Greer]

The last flight of the Austrian Hercules 8T-CA

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 EST

November 21, 2025 (by Asif Shamim) - On Thursday morning, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner and Chiefs from the armed forces announced at a press conference the decommissioning of the first of three C-130K Hercules of the Austrian Armed Forces. The aircraft with the registration #8T-CA completed its last flight just a short time later.

Austrian AF C-130K C.1 #8T-CA is parked in the static line-up for RIAT 2018 on July 12 2018. [Photo by Peter Fothergill]

The Hercules took off from the Vogler air base in Hörsching and touched down shortly afterwards in Wiener Neustadt, where the engines and propellers are now being removed and the radio equipment and on-board instruments dismantled. The fuselage will then remain on site and serve as a realistic training backdrop for the fighter command in future.

The two remaining remaining airframes will remain in operation for the time being. Plans for a second C-130K will be decommissioned at the end of 2027, while the third is currently undergoing a regular maintenance and is to remain available until 2030.

The first of a total of four new C-390Ms from the Brazilian manufacturer Embraer will arrive in Austria in early 2028, with construction of the aircraft beginning in early 2025.

Courtesy of Militär Aktuell

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

Austrian AF C-130K C.1 #8T-CA is parked on the tarmac with its ramp opened up to take some cargo in. [Photo by Invader]

139th Airlift Wing Welcomes First H3 Variant C-130

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 EST

November 19, 2025 (by Michael Crane) - The 139th Airlift Wing received its first H3 variant of the C-130 Hercules aircraft on November 4, 2025. The aircraft was transferred from the Montana Air National Guard’s 120th Airlift Wing and features NP2000 eight-bladed propellers and avionics upgrades, including an electronic propeller control system.

USAF C-130H3 #93-1455 assigned to the 180th AS, Missouri ANG, sits on the flightline November 5, 2025 at Rosecrans ANGB. This marks the wing’s first H3 variant to be integrated into its operational fleet, featuring the NP2000 eight-bladed propellers. [ANG photo by Michael Crane]

This transfer is part of a broader divestment program as older airframes are phased out of service.

The H3 model offers improved performance over its predecessor, flying slightly faster and with greater fuel efficiency. These enhancements contribute to longer range and more flexible mission capability.

The aircraft will undergo an acceptance inspection followed by an isochronal inspection before being cleared for flight operations at the 139th, according to Senior Master Sgt. Danny Mears, a production superintendent for the 139th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

Mears also said that the H3s are anywhere from 3 to 6 years newer than the wing’s current fleet of H2.5s.

The aircraft was flown from Montana to St. Joseph by aircrew from the 139th, with maintenance personnel accompanying the mission to provide support during the transfer process.

“The plane flew great,” said Lt. Col. Chase Bodenhausen, commander of the 139th Operations Support Squadron. “The eight bladed props are quiet, and power adjustments are immediate with the electronic valve-housing as opposed to the mechanical systems we have on the older H2’s.”

Beyond the propeller upgrades, one visible difference inside the cockpit is the location of the radar.

“In the H2, it is sitting on the dash, which restricts visibility for the pilot cross-cockpit,” said Bodenhausen. “The H3 has the radar display on the lower right side of the dash for both the pilot and copilot. This opens visibility outside of the aircraft for the pilot and copilot and puts the flight engineer in a much better position to aid in scanning outside the aircraft.”

The 139th is slated to receive another H3 variant C-130 from the Illinois Air National Guard in the near future, as that unit has transitioned to the newer J-model aircraft.

Courtesy of 139th Airlift Wing

Related articles:

Forum discussion:

Start a discussion about this article in the c-130.net forum.

Additional images:

USAF C-130H3 #93-1455 assigned to the 139th AW, undergoes an ISO inspection on November 17, 2025 at Rosecrans ANGB. This marks the wing’s first H3 variant to be integrated into its operational fleet, featuring the NP2000 eight-bladed propellers. [ANG photo by Michael Crane]

C-130 Hercules news

Bolivian C-130 transporting cash crash lands near La Paz

Lockheed Martin to Deliver Advanced C-130J Training Devices to the RAAF

Wyoming ANG brings combat-ready training to Sentry Aloha 26-1

Coast Guard takes delivery of 18th mission-ready HC-130J

Lockheed Martin welcomes Mexico to the C-130J Super Fleet

United States delivers fourth C-130H to the Tunisian Air Force

103rd Airlift Wing Completes Major C-130 Fleet Modernization

Man o’ War C-130 returns to ‘Old Kentucky Home’ for retirement

The last flight of the Austrian Hercules 8T-CA

139th Airlift Wing Welcomes First H3 Variant C-130

Lockheed Martin to Deliver Advanced C-130J Training Devices to the RAAF