IAF pilots all set for C-130J training at Lockheed Martin facility

Photos 1-6, the USAF C-130Js in various avatars, photo-7 a Super Hercules flying low over a coastline and photo 8; the assembly line of Indian C-130J in positions 1, 2, and 3 at the Lockheed Martin facility in Marietta, US. Photos: Lockheed Martin Media Department/US/India

By Anantha Krishnan M. | Aviation Week

Bangalore, India | June 01, 2010

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has identified a group of pilots to get trained at the Lockheed Martin facilities ahead of the scheduled delivery of the first C‑130J Super Hercules, this December. “We have identified the team for training,” IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal P.K. Barbora told AVIATION WEEK. The IAF is to receive six C-130Js for Special Services, with an additional option of six more. The initial basic training of the crew and maintenance technicians by Lockheed Martin is part of the contract and the IAF has picked the best in the business. “Initial set of people will be trained in maintenance and basic operations of the machine by the original equipment manufacturer,” Air Vice Marshal M. Matheswaran, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Ops-Space), told AVIATION WEEK.  The Lockheed Martin assembly line for C-130 J is in Marietta, US. Sources said that the first batch of IAF crew has already left for the US, a fact, however, could not be independently verified.  Sources said that the aircraft will undergo flights trials in India before being inducted into the IAF. The aircraft will be likely to be based at Hindon Air Force Station and the work for permanent hangars is in full swing.
Giving insights into India’s C-130J, Lockheed Martin sources said that though exterior looks very much like previous C-130s, the aircraft will be different in many ways. “The mission and propulsion systems have been completely redesigned. A new digital avionics architecture and propulsion system, twin head-up pilot displays that are certified as primary flight instruments, and dual mission computers that automate many functions, allowing the aircraft to be operated by only two pilots and a loadmaster,”  sources said.
A key to the C-130J’s increased performance is the new propulsion system. Four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 engines, each flat rated at 4,591 shaft horsepower, generate more thrust with greater fuel efficiency.

To read parts of the above report combined with LM press release, visit:

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