Lockheed C-130H Hercules

First flying 68 years ago, the Lockheed Hercules is a four-engine military transport plane that has seen extensive service throughout NATO and other nations around the world. The Hercules is still in production as the C-130J Super Hercules. In addition to transport, operators of the C-130 have found a variety of different uses for the type. This has included being a gunship armed with artillery cannons, search and rescue, scientific research, aerial refuelling, electronic combat and maritime patrol to name but a few. Whilst the C-130J is still in production and is still receiving new orders, the RAF were the launch customer for this new version of the Hercules in 1995 and retired their fleet during June 2023.

Morocco received a total of 19 C-130H Hercules between 1974 and 1984 and today 16 aircraft remain operational. This includes a pair of aircraft converted to KC-130H standard for aerial refuelling and a single specialist EC-130H used to collect electronic intelligence.

In support of its F-16s which are also taking part in the show, the Royal Moroccan Air Force will be sending a C-130H Hercules to this year’s Air Tattoo. Whilst acting as a support aircraft, it is unknown at this time whether the Hercules will be staying for the weekend.

Photo Credit: Tony Osborne