France’s first C-130J Super Hercules aircraft officially welcomed at Orléans – Bricy Air Base, France. Credit: Photo by Todd R McQueen.

France’s Armée de l’Air has officially received the country’s first C-130J Super Hercules aircraft for the airforce’s 62nd Transport Wing.

Under a foreign military sale (FMS) with the US Government, the French Air Force will procure a total of four Super Hercules aircraft, which includes two C-130J-30 combat delivery airlifters and two KC-130J aerial refuellers.

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The deliveries of the jets are slated to take place throughout next year.

Developed by Lockheed Martin, the first of these aircraft, C-130J-30 airlifter, was formally delivered to France in December last year at the company’s facility in Marietta, Georgia, the US.

Lockheed Martin Air Mobility and Maritime Missions vice-president and general manager George Shultz said: “As a long-time Hercules operator, France has continuously demonstrated to the world the unmatched qualities and versatility found only in a C-130.

“France’s new Super Hercules fleet delivers increased power, speed, and capabilities to ensure that Armée de l’Air crews continue to meet and exceed mission requirements for decades to come.”

“France’s new Super Hercules fleet delivers increased power, speed, and capabilities to ensure that Armée de l’Air crews continue to meet and exceed mission requirements for decades to come.”

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The C-130J aircraft is currently the most advanced tactical airlifter in operation and provides improved performance. It also delivers enhanced capabilities with a range and versatility for every theatre of operation and evolving requirements.

The aircraft is capable of conducting a wide range of global operations such as flying combat, humanitarian, special operations, aerial refuelling, firefighting, and search-and-rescue missions.

France’s new C-130Js will be operated with its existing Hercules aircraft fleet.