Australia contemplates C-130J replacement and JTAC training aircraft
The RAAF is planning to replace its current fleet of C-130J-30 transport aircraft. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
Australia is thinking ahead to an enlarged transport fleet to replace current C-130Js, plus it has got the ball rolling on the lease of aircraft for JTAC training.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) was the second export customer for the C-130J-30 and it may fast-track its Hercules fleet replacement with more of the same well before the end of this decade.
Australia acquired its C-130Js from 1999-2001, and given their early configuration, they lacked some of the navigation, cargo handling and other systems that are now standard on new builds. RAAF examples will reach their 30-year life of type in FY2030-31.
No. 37 Squadron operates the hardworking C-130Js, and Australia could buy as many as 30 new C-130Js under Project Air 7404.
This ambition was reflected in
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