The first Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft acquired by Turkey from the Royal Air Force have appeared in Turkish Air Force colors as preparations continue for their delivery.
At least three aircraft were spotted at Marshall Aerospace’s facilities in Cambridge, UK, this week. One of them, former RAF ZH875, was filmed being moved for engine testing on October 13 wearing Turkish markings and the identification 98-5459.
Two other former RAF aircraft, ZH877 and ZH879, have also been photographed in Turkish Air Force colors. They have reportedly received the identifications 98-5461 and 98-5463, respectively.
The sightings come shortly before the planned arrival of the first aircraft. Turkey’s Ministry of National Defence said earlier this month that the first two C-130J-30s are expected to be delivered in December.
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Turkey acquired 12 former RAF C-130J-30s after the UK retired its remaining Hercules fleet. The aircraft are the stretched version of the C-130J, providing additional cargo volume compared with the standard-length Super Hercules.
Preparation in the UK
The aircraft are undergoing work at Marshall Aerospace before entering Turkish service. The Cambridge-based company has been contracted to support the program, including maintenance, inspections and structural work.
The program includes replacement of the center wing box on all 12 aircraft, extending their structural life before they enter service with the Turkish Air Force.
The aircraft are also being prepared in a configuration different from that used by the RAF. Images of the first examples indicate the removal of equipment including the aerial refueling probes and elements associated with the British defensive aids configuration.
Turkey is simultaneously training personnel for the new fleet. The Defense Ministry said 41 Turkish personnel are involved in training activities, including six pilots and six technicians in the United States and another 29 maintenance personnel in the United Kingdom.
The 12 aircraft will supplement Turkey’s existing transport fleet, which includes older C-130B/E Hercules and Airbus A400M aircraft.
The C-130J introduces new engines, propellers and avionics compared with Turkey’s legacy Hercules. It is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines driving six-bladed Dowty propellers and features a digital flight deck.
The British government has valued the broader agreement and associated industrial work at more than £550 million (US$740 million), including long-term support activities in the UK.
The RAF withdrew the C-130J from service in June 2023 as it consolidated its airlift fleet around the Airbus A400M Atlas and Boeing C-17 Globemaster III.
