Accepts First Of 17 Super Hercs At Trenton Base
Canada formally accepted the first of 17 Lockheed Martin C-130J
Super Hercules aircraft Friday at ceremonies both in Suburban
Atlanta, GA and at Canadian Forces Base Trenton.
Canada finalized its CC-130J contract with Lockheed Martin in
December 2007, with a subsequent agreement from the U.S. Air Force
to ensure an early delivery of the first two Canadian aircraft. The
balance will be delivered by the end of 2012. The CC-130Js (the
Canadian designation) are the "stretched" configuration of the
C-130J and are of similar specification to those already operated
by the U.S. and other worldwide air forces.
"This year is the 50th anniversary of the first CC-130 Hercules
aircraft accepted by Canada," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, the
Canadian Minister of National Defence. "I am proud to mark this
milestone by welcoming the J-model Hercules into our fleet –
on budget and on schedule – ensuring the Canadian Forces have
the equipment it needs to be a modern, multi-role force able to
take on the challenges of the 21st century."
"Lockheed Martin is proud to again support Canada and the
Canadian Forces," said Tony Frese, Lockheed Martin C-130J program
director. "The C-130J Super Hercules is an operationally proven
platform and the ideal aircraft to replace Canada's existing C 130
fleet. The current C-130s have been Canada's indomitable workhorse
for decades and this new aircraft will now meet the demanding
tactical airlift needs of the Canadian Forces."
The C-130J generates greater operational efficiency than
Canada's existing E and H models, by flying further, faster, with
more payload and higher reliability. The aircraft's increased
performance gives it an enhanced range with a payload capability of
over 4,000 nautical miles. In addition, its short-field performance
allows the aircraft to engage in direct support missions for
frontline forces down to the last tactical mile.
C-130Js are currently deployed in several theatres and are
operating at a high tempo efficiently and reliably. C-130Js are
used daily for troop and equipment re-supply via ground delivery
and airdrop, for air-to-air refueling, ground refueling,
humanitarian relief and search and rescue.
Lockheed Martin recently announced the team of Canadian
companies that will provide maintenance and support for Canada's
new CC 130J fleet. The initial in-service support (ISS) contract
period is for six-and-a-half years from contract award in December
2009 to June 30, 2016.
"Through a rigorous and competitive process, we assembled a team
to support Canada's CC 130J fleet that rivals any such team in the
world," Frese said."This team – as well as the expertise and
capabilities in Canada to fulfill our industrial benefits
obligation – stands as a testament to the quality of Canada's
high-technology industrial base."
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