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 are now being replaced by the updated C-130J (Hercules C4 and C5).

The two versions in front-line service are the C1 and the C3. The first C3 was converted in 1979 by inserting a 15-ft fuselage extension which allows the aircraft to carry a 30% larger load than the standard version. Four aircraft were also modified as air-to-air refuelling aircraft, but have since retired and one aircraft has been heavily modified to carry meteorological survey instrumumentation. The Hercules is the backbone of the RAF tactical transport fleet and is capable of operating from short, unprepared strips and can airdrop troops or stores. It also has the endurance to mount long-range strategic airlift missions.

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)

Recognition: Four turboprops located under the high-set straight wing. A circular fuselage with a distinctive nose radome, undercarriage fairings and upswept tail to accomdate the large rear loading door. The Hercules often carries fuel tanks on under-wing pylons, and at some angles these may appear to be another pair of engines.