Dyess welcomes new addition

  • Published
  • By Amn. Charles V. Rivezzo
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Col. Lawrence M. Martin Jr., Air Mobility Command deputy A3, lands a C-130J Super Hercules here Jan. 21. The aircraft is the fifth of 28 to be delivered to Dyess by 2013, replacing the current aging fleet of C-130 Hercules models.

The C-130J incorporates state-of-the-art technology with proven military durability and reliability. The improved technologies reduce requirements for maintenance and logistic support needed on the previous model. Lower costs of owning and operating the C-130J make it a natural choice for the Air Force to use in the fleet.

"Even with all the new technology and improvements to the C-130J model, the key to mission success is the phenomenal capability we have from our well trained Airmen," said Colonel Martin.

The mission of the C-130J is tactical airlift, which means the aircraft is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is prime transportation for high-altitude air droppings of troops and equipment into hostile areas, as well as performing humanitarian missions.

"The C-130J has earned the reputation for being able to do anything, anytime and anywhere," said Col. Dan P. Dagher, 317th Airlift Group commander. "Lockheed Martin has developed an aircraft that will take you higher, farther and faster than any previous C-130 model could."

Dyess plans to relocate all C-130H models to Little Rock AFB, Ark., by the end of 2012 to make room for the arriving fleet of J-models.

Dyess will celebrate 50 years of C-130s here in April. The celebration will coincide with Big Country Airfest.