The Australian Government is set to purchase 20 brand-new Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules aircraft for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) in an effort to address future air transportation demands.
With the delivery of the first aircraft anticipated to begin in late 2027, the new acquisitions will replace and supplement the 12 Hercules aircraft now flown by the Air Force.
In a statement, the government said, “There will be significant benefits for Australian industry from the expanded fleet size, with opportunities to construct facilities and infrastructure and to sustain the aircraft.”
To date, the C-130J Hercules aircraft is used by the Australian Defence Force to transport soldiers, supplies, and equipment.
The aircraft is also frequently used for medical evacuation, search and rescue operations, and disaster assistance.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said the C-130J Hercules is a critical asset for not just the country’s armed forces but also for Australia as a whole.
“From bushfire and flood emergencies across the country, the delivery of crucial supplies to the region during the COVID-19 pandemic and more than two decades supporting peacekeeping operations, this has and will continue to be a crucial asset,” he remarked.
Marles added, “The Albanese Government is committed to ensuring the ADF is equipped with the capabilities it needs to keep Australians safe, and this targeted expansion of the fleet size will do just that.”
The C-130J has taken part in practically every significant defence action in recent years, from battles in Iraq and Afghanistan to humanitarian missions to Bougainville and Timor-Leste, according to the government.
More recently, the plane sent vaccinations and medical supplies to the area as part of Australia’s response to COVID-19, as well as supplies for fighting bushfires and flooding.
The aircraft will be flown by No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales.
