Revolutionary C-130J Super Hercules from Lockheed Martin arrives at Youngstown, ushers in new era for Air Force missions

Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has taken a significant step in bolstering the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s mission capabilities by delivering the first of eight C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters to Ohio’s Youngstown Air Reserve Station. This aircraft marks a pivotal enhancement in aerial capabilities, introducing a new aerial spray mission, a unique feature among the Department of Defense’s assets.

The 910th Airlift Wing, renowned for its exclusive large area, fixed-wing aerial spray capacity, is now equipped to handle challenges ranging from controlling disease-carrying insects to managing oil spills in substantial bodies of water. The addition of the C-130J Super Hercules to its fleet augments its operational readiness, bringing advanced technology that promises enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in critical missions.

Rod McLean, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business, expressed pride in this achievement. “Lockheed Martin is honored to deliver the most advanced Super Hercules ever built to the 910th Airlift Wing, providing cutting-edge technology and enabling a critical mission for the U.S. Air Force Reserve,” said McLean. The C-130J’s evolution is emblematic of Lockheed Martin’s commitment to innovation, adapting to an ever-expanding array of mission requirements.

Lockheed Martin’s delivery of the C-130J Super Hercules to Youngstown to enhance tactical airlift and aerial missions for the U.S. Air Force Reserve. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin Corporation.

The 910th Airlift Wing has a storied history with the C-130, having received its first Hercules in 1981. Over four decades of operations, the wing has seen various models of this robust aircraft, each iteration enhancing the capabilities of the fleet. The latest C-130J models promise a significant upgrade with more space, speed, range, and versatility, ensuring the wing remains at the forefront of tactical airlift and aerial spray missions.

Maj. Gen. Melissa Coburn, 22nd Air Force commander, remarked on the strategic importance of this new addition. “As we welcome the first C-130J aircraft to Youngstown Air Reserve Station, we mark a pivotal moment in our mission readiness,” she stated. The C-130J Super Hercules stands as a testament to the Air Force’s enduring strength and adaptability.

The U.S. Air Force Reserve is transitioning to a modernized fleet, integrating C-130Js with existing legacy aircraft to maintain a versatile and ready force. Col. Mike Maloney, 910th Airlift Wing commander, highlighted the transition’s significance. “Our C-130H Hercules aircraft have served us well for decades. As we retire them from service at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, we look forward to continuing their track record of success with a fleet of new C-130J Super Hercules aircraft,” he explained.

The Super Hercules is setting new standards in the field of tactical airlift missions. With 545+ C-130Js flown by 26 operators across 22 nations, accumulating nearly 3 million flight hours, the fleet’s extensive experience informs continuous improvements and readiness for future challenges.