Academy 12631 1/144 C-130J-30 Super Hercules Military Transport Aircraft, Plastic Model Kit (A12631)

Contents

Model Specifications

• 1:144 scale model of Lockheed C-130J-30 Super Hercules
• Accurate reproduction of the elongated body compared to previous variants
• Finely detailed panel lines, landing gear and six-bladed propellers
• Option to build with open or closed cargo ramp
• Includes decals for 6 versions: USAF (3 options), ROKAF, RAF and RAAF
• High quality parts for durability and long-lasting appearance
• A challenging but enjoyable building process with clear instructions

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is an American-made medium-range four-engine aircraft. In January 1951, Tactical Air Command issued specifications for an aircraft designed for tactical transport. This specification praised a machine that could carry 13,620 kg of payload in the operating zone and carry 90 soldiers or 72 paratroopers at a range of 3,380 km. Four companies were invited to design this type of aircraft: Boeing, Douglas, Lockheed and Fairchild. Lockheed's L-206 project was the winner. The first mass-production C-130 flew at Dobbins base in Marietta on April 7, 1955. The C-130E version was produced between 1961 and 1962. The first C-130E flew on 25 August 1961, and the first deliveries of mass-production aircraft began in April 1962. The C-130E was the mass-produced transport version with modernized equipment, with a strengthened center wing and landing gear. Although C-130 Hercules aircraft were used primarily in transport missions, they also participated in various combat operations, such as "Operation Entebbe" in 1976. In this operation, Israeli commandos rescued 103 passengers kidnapped by terrorists at Entebbe airport in Uganda. In 1965, during the Second Kashmir War between India and Pakistan, the Hercules-equipped Pakistan Air Force used it as a heavy bomber, with necessary modifications, mostly targeting bridges and concentrated Indian forces, with some success. Pakistani air force used C-130 aircraft taking off from Skardu, the world's highest air base, to support operations on the Sjachen Glacier. The AC-130 Hercules is the heaviest and largest aircraft to land on an aircraft carrier. In November 1963, an aircraft of this type landed on the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal without the aid of tow ropes. Although the landing was successful, it was decided that landing such heavy machines on aircraft carriers was too risky and the lighter C-2 Greyhound was selected for the fleet resupply mission. The C-130 is the longest continuously produced aircraft in aviation history to date. Approximately 2,300 units of all versions have been produced since 1956. Since 2009, the Polish Air Force has also been using C-130 aircraft. Technical Specifications (C-130H): Maximum speed: 592 km/h, climb speed: 9.3 m/s, maximum ceiling height: 10,060 m, maximum range: 3,800 km.