U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY --
Manufacturer: Lockheed
Function: Theater
Tactical Airlift
Modified Functions:
Tanker, Special Operations, Reconnaissance,
Airborne Command Post, Special Mission
Service Date: 1956
Speed: 366 mph
Crew: Five
Production: 2,200+ Inventory: 428
Commentary: Basic and specialized versions of the C-130 Hercules transport operate throughout USAF, performing diverse roles in diverse situations, including airlift support, Arctic ice cap resupply, aeromedical missions, aerial spray missions (AFRC), fire-fighting duties (AFRC and ANG) for the US Forest Service, gunship, special operations, and natural disaster and humanitarian relief missions.
Major Variants:
AC-130U “Spectre” Gunship
C-130E/H/J “Hercules” Inter-theater Airlift
DC-130 Drone Launch/Control
EC-130E “Commando Solo” Command/Control
EC-130H “Compass Call” Electronic Warfare
HC-130 “Combat King” Tanker/Combat Rescue
LC-130H Arctic Operations
MC-130E/H “Combat Talon” Special Operations
MC-130W “Combat Spear” Special Operations
MC-130P “Combat Shadow” Special Operations
WC-130 “Hurricane Hunter” Weather Operations