Egypt is set to join the list of C-130 Super Hercules operators with the purchase of its first two aircraft.
Lockheed Martin announced Thursday that it had secured a deal with Cairo for the C-130J-30 variant at the Egypt International Airshow 2024.
According to the company, the acquisition will enhance the Egyptian Air Force’s tactical airlift capabilities, allowing it to better support missions across North Africa.
“Welcoming Egypt to the C-130J Super Hercules global fleet is an honor that truly represents the longstanding partnership between our two nations and with Lockheed Martin,” Lockheed VP Rod McLean said.
With this purchase, Egypt will become the 23rd foreign operator of the C-130J and the 7th in the Middle East/North Africa region.
Proven Capabilities
Lockheed’s C-130 is a powerful military transport aircraft equipped with four turboprop engines.
Its J-30 variant offers an impressive payload capacity of 44,000 pounds (19,958 kilograms), enough to carry up to 124 fully-equipped soldiers.
It boasts a maximum speed of 410 miles (659 kilometers) per hour and an operational range of 1,700 nautical miles (3,148 kilometers).
According to Lockheed, the “unmatched” capabilities of its Super Hercules fleet have made it an in-demand tactical airlifter with over 2,500 deliveries worldwide.
It has also reportedly surpassed more than three million flight hours across 63 nations.
“Always evolving, continually innovating, and ready for what’s next, the Super Hercules leads the charge by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions,” the company stated.
