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In the tactical transport role, the RAF operates a large fleet of C-130 Hercules. This aircraft can operate from short, unprepared strips and can airdrop troops or stores. It also has the endurance to mount long-range strategic airlift. The aircraft's range can be further extended through the use of air-to-air refuelling. Two versions are in service, the C1 and the C3. The latter, whose fuselage has been extended by 15 feet, has a hold capacity 30% greater than the C1. From 1999, 25 of the Hercules fleet will be replaced by the new C-130J model. With engines driving six-bladed composite propellers providing enhanced take-off power and fuel efficiency, the C-130J has a cockpit crew of two and flat panel liquid crystal displays replacing much of the conventional instrumentation. |
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Powerplant: Four Allison T56-A-15 turboprops flat-rated at 4,910shp Span: 132ft 7in (40.41m) Length: C1: 97ft 9in (29.79m); C3: 113ft 9in (34.69m) Max Cruise Speed: 374mph (602km/h) Accommodation: Crew of four or six and up to 92 troops, 64 paratroops, or 74 stretchers; a maximum payload of up to 43,399lb (19,685kg) Recognition: Four turboprops located under the high-set straight wing. A circular fuselage with a distinctive nose radome, undercarriage fairings and upswept tail to accomdate the large rear loading door. The Hercules often carries fuel tanks on under-wing pylons, and at some angles these may appear to be another pair of engines. |
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