The C-130J-30 Hercules is a medium-sized tactical air-lifter which can deliver cargo to airfields with short unsurfaced runways, and airdrop cargo and paratroops by parachute.
A fleet of 12 C-130J-30 Hercules are operated from RAAF Base Richmond by No. 37 Squadron. The aircraft were delivered to the base between 1999 and 2001.
The Australian Defence Force relies extensively on the C-130J-30 when deploying personnel and aid. The aircraft can also be used in other roles, such as search and survivor assistance, and medical evacuation.
The C-130J-30 Hercules can carry up to 124 passengers, or eight pallets of cargo. It can work alongside other airlifters, including the C-27J Spartan and C-17A Globemaster III.
Upgrades to the C-130J-30 have enhanced communications and information-sharing, and improved the aircraft's endurance during battle.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Lockheed Martin |
|---|---|
| Role | Tactical and medium transport |
| Crew |
|
| Length | 34.4m |
| Height | 10.1m |
| Wingspan | 40.4m |
| Weight | 79,378kg maximum (19,500kg payload) |
| Engines | Four Rolls Royce AE2100D3 turboprops (4,691 shaft horsepower each) driving 6-blade variable-pitch propellers |
| Range | 6,852 km (no payload) |
| Ceiling | 40,000 feet |
| Cruise speed | 643 km/h |
| Capacity |
Depending on configuration:
|
| Weapons | Self-protection measures |