| The Lockheed C-130
Hercules is the most numerous transport aircraft in the West and
has been in production longer than any other aircraft in history.
The prototype flew in August 1954 and since then
over 60 nations have ordered the Hercules.
Those in use by the RAF are C-130K versions (known
as Hercules C1 and C3) and initial deliveries (of a total of 66
ordered) were made during the mid-1960s and many are destined to
remain in service for some years to come, although about half of
the fleet have been replaced by the updated C-130J.
The C1 is capable of carrying 92 passengers whilst
the C3 can carry 128 passengers. The maximum payload is 20 tonnes
or 45,000lbs which can be carried over 2,000 miles; the maximum
unrefuelled ferry range is almost 4,000 miles.
Entered
Service: 1967 (C1)
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 five or six and up to 92
troops, 64 paratroops, or 74 stretchers; a maximum payload of up
to 43,399lb (19,685kg)
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