The Indian Air Force has received the first of six C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft from Lockheed Martin ordered under the US Foreign Military Sale programme in late 2008.
The C-130J is a comprehensive update of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules and is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE2100 engines and Dowty six-bladed props, which provide the aircraft with tremendous power.
The aircraft is also equipped with air-to-air receiver refuelling capability for extended range operations.
The $1.2bn contract includes six aircraft, training of aircrew and maintenance technicians, spares, ground support and test equipment, servicing carts, forklifts, loading vehicles, cargo pallets and a team of technical specialists who will be based in India during a three-year initial support period.
The contract also includes operational equipment designed to increase special operations capabilities.
