USAF Receives First HC-130J Combat Rescue Tanker

The US Air Force Air Combat Command (ACC) has received the first of 21 HC-130J combat rescue tankers ordered from Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin C-130 programme vice-president Ross Reynolds said the new configuration would give ACC unparalleled capability for combat search and rescue.

By cms admin

The US Air Force Air Combat Command (ACC) has received the first of 21 HC-130J combat rescue tankers ordered from Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin C-130 programme vice-president Ross Reynolds said the new configuration would give ACC unparalleled capability for combat search and rescue.

The new and improved C-130J will replace the air force’s aging combat search and rescue HC-130s and special operations MC 130s.

Based on a KC-130J, the tanker baseline will include the enhanced service life wing, enhanced cargo handling system and a universal aerial refuelling receptacle slipway installation.

The aircraft also features an electro-optical / infrared sensor, a combat systems operator station on the flight deck and provision for the large aircraft infrared countermeasures system.

The USAF will acquire up to 31 HC/MC 130Js, including 11 HCs and 20 MCs.