New Zealand’s first J-model Hercules delivered

New Zealand’s Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies joined Defence Minister Judith Collins in welcoming the first of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s new C-130J Hercules fleet at a ceremony at RNZAF Base Auckland on 10 September.

CAPTION: Arrival of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s first C-130J Hercules at RNZAF Base Auckland, Whenuapai. NZDF photo.

Over the next few months the five new aircraft will replace the existing C-130H fleet, which has been in service with the RNZAF for nearly 50 years.

“We have taken a huge step forward in our tactical air transport capability,” Air Marshal Davies said.

“The additional capabilities the new C-130J fleet brings will open up expanded roles for the aircraft to meet the needs of New Zealand and our partners.

“For this aircraft, that starts today, with its first task being to introduce the new Hercules to the air bases around the country by moving freight and providing familiarisation for our Air Movements staff.

“Soon, we will switch focus to Antarctic operations, repeating the pattern of the first C-130 ice flights in 1965, only a few months after their arrival in New Zealand”, he said.

“Hercules has been the backbone of our force, whether deploying in their own right or supporting our soldiers, sailors and aviators on other missions.

“There is often a C-130 in the background of our operations and exercises, and this legacy will continue for further generations to come, under the J model fleet.”

Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb said that the Hercules was an iconic aircraft, flown in many variants by air forces and other users all over the world.

“Our C-130H fleet, which will retire early next year, has delivered essential military air effects for New Zealand at home and around the world,” Air Vice-Marshal Webb said.

“It has operated in almost every continent and operational theatre, and flown nearly 155,000 accident-free hours – an exceptional record.

“Over the next few months, the enhanced modern C-130J steps into that role.

“I have no doubt whatsoever it will perform with equal distinction, and will enable the men and women of today’s Royal New Zealand Air Force to face up to the many and varied challenges on our horizon with the same trust and confidence as those who went before”

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