Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Australian International Air Show 2017 - New Zealand and Singaporean Lockheed C-130H Hercules

Attending the Australian International Air Show was a familiar aircraft to the skies of Central Queensland, Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Lockheed C-130H Hercules '731'.

Along with other C-130H Hercules operated by the RSAF, '731' often ferries cargo and personnel between Singapore, Darwin and Rockhampton during 'Exercise Wallaby', the annual Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) military exercise held at Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA). During the war games, Rockhampton Airport is used as a logistical hub and launching point for RSAF aircraft and helicopters.    

According to a source, the Republic of Singapore Air Force maintains six dedicated cargo carrying C-130H Hercules, and five KC-130B's that are capable of performing aerial refuelling tasks.
 













 
Another identical military aircraft taking time out from regular operations to attend the airshow at Avalon was Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Lockheed C-130H NZ7004.

Similar to it's RSAF counterpart, the presentation of both Hercs was nothing shy of immaculate.

Maintained by No.40 Squadron at RNZAF Base Auckland, the Royal New Zealand Air Force currently operates six C-130H (NZ) Hercules aircraft in a standard cargo carrying configuration.