Lockheed Martin on Monday signed a contract with the Sultanate of Oman for two more C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
Oman ordered the first C-130J in July 2009, expecting it to be delivered in 2012. The two additional Super Hercules aircraft will be delivered in late 2013 and early 2014. Oman ordered two configurations of the four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft, one “long” configuration and the new order is for two C-130J “short” configuration aircraft. There was no information on the total price of the contract.
The aircraft is the newest version of the Hercules and is the only model that is still being produced. While it’s visually similar to previous version of the aircraft, the J model has considerably updated its technology. This includes new Rolls-Royce AE 2100 D3 turboprops, composite propellers, digital avionics systems (which include an advanced Heads-up Displays for each pilot), and reduced crew requirements.
The U.S. Air Force, in 2008, ordered six modified KC-130J aircraft for use by the Air Force and Special Operations Command with a contract worth $470 million. The KC-130J will be able to serve as a fire support aircraft and can deliver ground support fire using a 30mm cannon, Hellfire missiles, and precision guided bombs.
Oman is currently operating a fleet of the older C-130Hs that were purchased in the early 1980s, making them quite outdated. The new fleet will support Omani operations, as it has an excellent ability to operate out of remote and rundown airstrips.
“The C-130J is ideally suited to the operating conditions found in Oman and other areas of the Gulf,” Jim Grant, Lockheed Martin vice president for Air Mobility and Special Operations Forces Programs, said. “In selecting the C-130J Super Hercules, Oman has recognized all of the proven qualities of the world’s most advanced airlifter.”
Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs over 136,000 internationally. It’s involved in the research and development process as well as the development and manufacture of advanced technology systems that contribute to defense systems around the world. The company reported 2009 sales of a total of $44.5 billion.
