The US Air Force Europe and Africa Command has received the fifth 14 C-130J transport aircraft provided to the air force to enhance its airlift capability.
The multimission aircraft is engaged in high-tempo operations in multiple combat theatres and is routinely deployed in support of both peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
The C-130Js based at Ramstein air base in Germany will also support the airlift needs of the newly established Africa Command.
USAF 17th Air Force and US Air Forces Africa commander major general Ronald Ladnier said the power of the C-130J, and its range is ideally suited to the size of the African continent and their mission there.
The new aircraft are the longer C-130J-30 configuration, the present standard for recapitalising the USAF and other air forces.
Ten C-130Js will be delivered to Ramstein in 2009 and four more in 2010.
