Background -
Four decades have elapsed since the Air Force issued its original design specification, yet the remarkable C-130 remains in production. The initial production model was the C-130A, with four Allison T56-A-11 or -9 turboprops. A total of 219 were ordered and deliveries began in December 1956. Two DC-130A's (originally GC-130A's) were built as drone launchers/directors,
carrying up to four drones on underwing pylons. All special equipment was removable, permitting the aircraft to be used as freighters, assault transports, or ambulances. The C-130B introduced Allison T56-A-7 turboprops and the first of 134 entered Air Force service in April 1959. C-130B's
are used in aerial fire fighting missions by Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units. Six C-130B's were modified in 1961 for snatch recovery of classified U.S. Air Force satellites by the 6593rd Test Squadron at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
Features-
In its personnel carrier role, the C-130 can accommodate 92 combat troops or 64 fully equipped paratroops on side-facing seats. For medical evacuations, it carries 74 litter patients and two medical attendants. Paratroopers exit the aircraft through two doors on either side of the aircraft behind the landing-gear fairings. Another exit is off the rear ramp for airdrops.
The C-130 Hercules joins on mercy flights throughout the world, bringing in food, clothing, shelter, doctors, nurses and medical supplies and moving victims to safety.
C-130 Hercules have served other nations, airlifting heavy equipment into remote areas to build airports and roads, search for oil ,and transport local goods. As a partial response to the overwhelming role played by the tactical airlift fleet in Operation Just Cause and in the Persian Gulf War, Congress has approved the procurement of more C-130H's to replace the aging E models.
General Characteristics-
Primary Function: Intratheater airlift.
Contractor: Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company.
Power Plant: Four Allison T56-A-15 turboprops; 4,300 horsepower, each engine.
Length: 97 ft, 9 in.
Height: 38 ft, 3 in.
Wingspan: 132 ft, 7 in.
Speed: 374 mph (Mach 0.57) at 20,000 ft.
Ceiling: 33,000 feet with 100,000 pounds payload.
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 155,000 pounds.
Range: 2,356 miles (2,049 nautical miles) with maximum payload; 2,500 miles (2,174 nautical
miles) with 25,000 pounds cargo; 5,200 miles (4,522 nautical miles) with no cargo.
Unit Cost: $22.9 million (1992 dollars).
Crew: Five (two pilots, a navigator, flight engineer and loadmaster); up to 92 troops or 64 paratroops or 74 litter patients or five standard freight pallets.
Date Deployed: April 1955.
Inventory: Active force, 98; ANG, 20 Bs, 60 E's and 93 H's; Reserve, 606.
Go tohttp://www.c130.com to see more about Hercules.