- â–º Lockheed Martin has been awarded a US Foreign Military Sale contract to provide advanced C-130J training devices and simulator upgrades to the Royal Australian Air Force. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- â–º Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2029 and include Weapon Systems Trainers, an Enhanced Integrated Cockpit Systems Trainer, and Loadmaster Part-Task Trainer. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- â–º New devices feature modern graphics, motion cueing and high-fidelity cockpit replication to mirror the actual C-130J flight environment. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- â–º RAAF operates 12 C-130J-30 Super Hercules airlifters and is acquiring 20 more to expand tactical airlift capacity. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- ► Training upgrades support Australia’s larger force structure, preparing crews ahead of new aircraft deliveries. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Lockheed Martin to Deliver C-130J Training Devices to RAAF
Lockheed Martin will deliver advanced C-130J training devices and simulator upgrades to the Royal Australian Air Force under a US Foreign Military Sale contract awarded through Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the company announced February 18.
The contract covers a suite of training systems designed to support the RAAF’s expanding C-130J fleet as Australia strengthens its tactical airlift capability. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2029.
What the Contract Includes
Under the agreement, Lockheed Martin will provide:
- Two Weapon Systems Trainers
- One Enhanced Integrated Cockpit Systems Trainer (EICS)
- A Loadmaster Part-Task Trainer
- Upgrades to existing Virtual Simulation and Virtual Maintenance Trainers
These devices incorporate modern graphics, motion cueing and high-fidelity cockpit replication that reflect the operational C-130J environment.
Building Training Capacity
Lockheed Martin’s role as original equipment manufacturer of the C-130J Super Hercules gives it system-level insight into replicating aircraft behavior for training. The company says its solutions aim to improve mission readiness from initial crew training.
The contract comes as the RAAF prepares for an expanded tactical transport fleet. Australia currently fields 12 C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft and, under a 2022 Foreign Military Sale agreement, ordered 20 additional airlifters, with first deliveries expected in 2028.
Strategic Context
The C-130J Super Hercules is a cornerstone of tactical airlift for militaries around the world. More than 560 aircraft have been delivered to operators in over two dozen countries, amassing millions of flight hours.
By investing in enhanced training infrastructure now, Australia aims to align its crew preparation with upcoming fleet growth. High-fidelity simulators and advanced training devices help reduce cost and risk associated with live flight hours while maintaining operational proficiency.
Training and Readiness
Loadmasters, pilots and support personnel will train on both hardware-based systems and virtual environments. Upgrades to virtual simulation and virtual maintenance trainers expand the scope of instruction beyond basic cockpit handling, covering mission planning and aircraft upkeep.
Forward Outlook
Australia’s tactical airlift capability plays a key role in regional operations, humanitarian assistance and alliance interoperability with the United States and other partners. Enhanced training systems are expected to help ensure crews are ready as the RAAF absorbs newly delivered aircraft beginning in the latter part of the decade.
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