The Lockheed Martin C-130J is the current Hercules and only model still in production, and is a comprehensive update over it's predecessors. New turboprop engines (Rolls Royce AE2100 D3), composite scimitar Dowty propellers, digital avionics encompassing head-up displays (HUD's), and other system upgrades were incorporated with the 'J' series model.
The C-130J is available as a standard model, or stretched -30 variant.
Operated by a number of air forces around the world, including major forces such as the United States Air Force (USAF), United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), are two of many other nations that have also acquired the venerable Hercules.
Maintained by No.37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond, NSW, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) operates twelve C-130J-30 Hercules, and are supported by eight Boeing C-17A Globemaster III's at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland, and ten newly acquired Alenia C-27J Spartan's that are still being delivered to the RAAF.
Making a welcomed presence at the Australian International Air Show was Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Hercules A97-464.
Also making a presence at the airshow was Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Hercules '601' (130601).
Officially designated CC-130J-30, seventeen stretched model Hercules are operated by 436 Squadron at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario, Canada.
