Article Posted on : - Jun 29, 2010

First Lockheed Martin C-130J produced for India. A Lockheed Martin photo

NEW DELHI (BNS): Lockheed Martin has completed painting its first C-130J Super Hercules for Indian Air Force (IAF) which will now enter flight test in preparation for delivery at the end of the year.

The IAF had purchased the C-130J-30s at a cost of $1.059 billion. The first C-130J Super Hercules for India has completed painting at Lockheed’s Marietta, Ga., facility, the company said.

The program for India includes six C-130Js, training of aircrew and maintenance technicians, spare parts, and ground support and test equipment. Also included is India-unique operational equipment designed to increase Special Operations capabilities.

According to a media report, the aircraft equipped with an infrared detection set (IDS) will for the first time provide the IAF an ability to conduct precision low-level flying operations, airdrops and landings in blackout conditions.

The C-130J "Super" Hercules is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. It is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for air dropping troops and equipment into hostile areas.