Romania boosts airlift capability with arrival of US C-130H-2 Hercules
The FAR currently operates six C-130 Hercules military aircraft consisting of four C-130Bs and two C-130H aircraft. (Photo: US DoD)
The strategic acquisition of C-130H Hercules represents a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the US and Romania under the Foreign Military Sales programme.
In a strategic move to bolster its airlift capabilities, Romania welcomed the arrival of a USAF C-130H-2 Hercules at Bucharest/Baneasa International Airport on 15 September. The aircraft is slated for handover to the Romanian Air Force (FAR).
A dedicated US Mobile Training Team was engaged in intensive training sessions with the Romanian crew from September 17–29 to prepare them for the operation of the transport aircraft. The training aimed to familiarise FAR personnel with the advanced equipment on board, ensuring seamless integration and optimal operational efficiency.
This acquisition marks another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the US and Romania under
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![RAF Protector fleet grows as UK maritime surveillance role takes shape]()
RAF Protector fleet grows as UK maritime surveillance role takes shape
The RAF’s expanding Protector RG1 fleet could play a growing role in UK maritime surveillance following its first domestic operational sorties, with further aircraft deliveries scheduled through 2027.
-
![Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy]()
Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy
Leonardo’s integration of Shield AI’s Hivemind software could enable its Proteus uncrewed helicopter to conduct independent anti-submarine warfare missions, supporting the Royal Navy’s plans for a future hybrid air wing.
-
![Oshkosh and Grid Aero tie-up tests new model for scaling military UAS production]()
Oshkosh and Grid Aero tie-up tests new model for scaling military UAS production
By combining established manufacturing capacity with startup aircraft design, the partnership could offer an alternative approach to scaling military uncrewed aircraft production.
-
![European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans]()
European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans
Poland is seeking to update its transport helicopters as part of a wider military aviation modernisation programme, with EU funding requirements and NATO interoperability key considerations.
-
![Poland air focus: $8.27 billion UAV market highlights value of long-term supplier relationships]()
Poland air focus: $8.27 billion UAV market highlights value of long-term supplier relationships
Poland’s growing investment in UAVs highlights how recurring procurement contracts and continuous technological development can provide suppliers with sustained opportunities beyond initial acquisitions.
