Singapore Airshow 2026: RSAF refreshes air transport capability as part of force modernisation
The four ex-Spanish C-130Hs will replace a similar number of RSAF C-130Bs that are around 60 years old. (Photo: author)
Singapore is understood to have received three of four ex-Spanish C-130Hs from Blue Aerospace in recent weeks.
Singapore will rejuvenate its Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical airlift fleet through the acquisition of pre-owned C-130H aircraft, enabling the retirement of its sub-fleet of elderly C-130B airframes.
In response to written questions from the media on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2026 this week, Chief of Air Force Maj Gen Kelvin Fan stated: “After thorough evaluations, we have determined that the C-130 remains the best platform to meet our operational needs for the next 15 to 20 years.”
He continued: “The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is therefore acquiring used, but still well-maintained, C-130H aircraft to replace our
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
-
![Lithuania air focus: Majority of $235.98 million drone investment to be spent before 2030]()
Lithuania air focus: Majority of $235.98 million drone investment to be spent before 2030
Lithuania has committed significant funding towards expanding its UAV capabilities, with more than $54 million already spent and substantial additional investment planned through to 2029. Alongside domestic procurement, the country has also acquired various drones to support Ukraine.
-
![“A dominant force”: empowering Europe’s airborne ISR in a new era]()
“A dominant force”: empowering Europe’s airborne ISR in a new era
European militaries face a new security landscape, with the proliferation of drones, theatre ballistic missiles and other threats boosting requirements for airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and related systems. For L3Harris, missionised business jets are central to meeting these needs, providing capability and flexibility in a cost-effective package.
-
![What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?]()
What opportunities remain for European airborne early warning requirements?
With a pending NATO AWACS replacement on the horizon, the demand and market opportunities for airborne early warning aircraft remain strong as countries look to bolster their capabilities, with industry eyeing gaps in the market.
-
![NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)]()
NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)
Developed in response to NATO’s needs, NHIndustries’ NH90 remains a cornerstone of European and Middle Eastern fleets – with upgrades planned to extend and improve the capabilities of the versatile and capable platform.
