RAF SPECIAL FORCES C-130J - Hercules

The C-130J C.5 Hercules is more modern version of the C.1 (C-130K). It was initially planned to replace all of 47 Sqn C.1 and C.3a models with the C.4/C.5s, but a series of technical difficulties with the C-130J put that plan on hold. It is now believed that a small number of C.5 Hercs have been configured for Special Forces use by 47 Sqn.

C-130Js have the following improvements over the older models:

• Allison AE turboprops + Dowty Aerospace six-bladed composite propellers
  more powerful engines and more efficient props create an improved performance when taking off and a better fuel efficiency, negating the need for external fuel tanks
• Digital Glass Cockpit
  • 4x multifunction LCD displays units
  • 2x holographic Head Up Displays (HUD)
  • automatic flight control system
  • autothrottle
  • head down display
  • traffic collision avoidance system
  • ground collision avoidance system
  • compatible with night visions goggles (NVGs)
• Lower operating costs
  • lower maintenance costs
  • less manpower costs (2-less crew needed)
• Improved overall performance
  • 35% greater range
  • 42% higher cruising ceiling
  • 59% decrease in time-to-climb
  • 21% increase in maximum speed
  • 41% decrease in take-off run

The C.4 model is a 'stretched' version, with a 15ft longer fuselage.

RAF C-130J Hercules are fitted with a defensive aids sub-system (DASS) as standard, although it is not as effective as that carried by SF-equipped C.1 and C.3a:aircraft. Specifics of the DASS fitted to SF-equipped are hard to come by but some have speculated they would be similar to C.1 and C.3a fitments:

• AN/AAQ-24(V) Nemesis directed IR countermeasures (DIRCM)
• AN/AAR-47 electro-optical missile warning system
  
• AN/APR-39A Radar Warning Receivers
• 3x AN/ALE-40 chaff/flare dispensers on either side of the lower nose

C.5 Hercules Specifications

A RAF C-130 C.5 comes into land newly reopened military runway at Baghdad International Airport, July, 2003. British C-130s were the first planes to land at the airport following the allied invasion. DoD photo by: MSGT ROBERT R. HARGREAVES, USAF

« uksf aviation