Home
Catalog
Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
C-130J Super Hercules Aircraft

C-130J Super Hercules Aircraft

Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed Approx. 362 knots (417 mph)
Range Mission dependent, more than 2,000 nautical miles in typical tactical configurations
Payload Capacity Up to 42,000 lb
Crew Typically 3 to 6, depending on mission

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	C-130J Super Hercules
Manufacturer	Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Country of Origin	United States
Introduction / In Service Since	1999
Status	In service
Category	Tactical military transport aircraft
Crew	Typically 3 to 6
Unit Cost	Varies by configuration and procurement contract

2. Dimensions & Structure

Length	97 ft 9 in (29.57 m)
Wingspan	132 ft 7 in (40.41 m)
Height	38 ft 10 in (11.84 m)
Wing Area	Approx. 1,745 sq ft
Empty Weight	Approx. 75,000 lb, configuration dependent
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	Up to 164,000 lb

3. Performance

Maximum Speed	Approx. 362 knots (417 mph)
Range	Mission and payload dependent
Combat Radius	Not publicly standardized
Service Ceiling	Approx. 28,000 ft
Rate of Climb	Configuration dependent

4. Powerplant

Engine Type	4 × Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 turboprops
Thrust (per engine)	4,591 shp
Total Thrust	18,364 shp

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity	Up to 42,000 lb
Weapons Bay	None
Compatible Weapons	Not normally configured as an armed aircraft
Hardpoints	None on standard transport configuration

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System	Mission-dependent weather and navigation radar
Navigation	Integrated digital navigation and GPS/INS
Electronic Warfare (EW)	Defensive systems available on military configurations
Stealth Features	No dedicated stealth capability

7. Operational History

Primary Operator	U.S. Air Force and other military operators
Conflict Usage	Tactical airlift, airdrop and expeditionary operations
Notable Missions	Airlift, airdrop, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and special operations support

8. Additional Information

Variants	C-130J-30, KC-130J and other specialized variants
Successor / Future Replacement	No direct replacement currently established
Notable Features	Rear loading ramp, short-field capability, modern digital cockpit
Estimated Operational Life	Several decades with modernization and structural upgrades

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Stealth Capability 2 / 10
Payload Capacity 6 / 10
Range & Endurance 6 / 10
Electronic Warfare 5 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 6 / 10

PROS

Proven tactical airlift capability
Excellent short-field operating ability
Large and flexible cargo compartment
Modern digital avionics and turboprop engines
Wide range of military and humanitarian missions

CONS

Subsonic performance limits rapid strategic movement
Large aircraft requires substantial maintenance support
Vulnerable to sophisticated air defenses
Payload and range vary significantly by mission
Specialized configurations can increase acquisition costs

C-130J Super Hercules Transport Aircraft

The C-130J Super Hercules is a modern U.S. military transport aircraft developed for tactical airlift, airdrop, personnel movement, cargo transport and operations from austere airfields. It is the latest major production version of the Hercules family and is used by the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps and other operators worldwide. The aircraft can transport troops, vehicles, cargo and equipment while supporting humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and expeditionary missions.

Manufacturer

The C-130J is manufactured by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in the United States. It incorporates a redesigned flight deck, modern avionics, digital engine controls and improved propulsion compared with earlier C-130 variants. Its design allows military forces to move personnel and equipment directly into locations where larger strategic airlifters may be unable to operate.

Speed and Range

The C-130J is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE2100D3 turboprop engines, each producing approximately 4,591 shaft horsepower. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of about 362 knots, or approximately 417 mph, depending on configuration and operating conditions. Its range varies with payload and mission profile, while its tactical design allows it to conduct operations from relatively short and unimproved runways.

Cost/Price

The cost of a C-130J varies according to configuration, mission equipment, support package and procurement arrangement. Historical U.S. procurement figures have placed individual aircraft prices in the tens of millions of dollars, while fully equipped modern contracts can be significantly higher. There is no single universal current flyaway price for every C-130J configuration.

Reviews

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data.TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content.We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content.External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.