Global Super Hercules fleet grows with delivery of first C-130J to New Zealand

Crews from 40 Squadron located at RNZAF’s Base Auckland, Whenuapai, will operate the new C-130Js.

Rod McLean, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business, said: “From supporting humanitarian and disaster relief operations to partnering with allies in military operations, New Zealand’s C-130s are truly a global force for good.

“The RNZAF’s new C-130J fleet will continue to support these critical missions while offering New Zealand increased allied alignment, greater reach, enhanced capabilities and proven performance for some of the most demanding tactical airlift operational requirements.”

New Zealand officials announced the intent to modernize its existing fleet of five C-130Hs with five C-130J-30 variants in 2020 via a foreign military sale with the US Air Force. A joint project team with personnel from New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence and the New Zealand Defence Force have worked alongside the US Air Force and Lockheed Martin to manage the aircraft delivery and training programs.

Last year, the RNZAF’s No. 3 Squadron made history in military aviation by having the first all-female team to operate the Airbus NH90 in New Zealand.