Home Americas US Marine Corps reserve squadron receives first KC-130J Super Hercules

US Marine Corps reserve squadron receives first KC-130J Super Hercules

KC-130J
US Marine Corps file photo

Lockheed Martin announced it has recently delivered the first KC-130J Super Hercules tanker assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 (VMGR-452), the Marine Forces Reserve squadron at Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York.

A US Marine Corps crew ferried the aircraft from Lockheed Martin’s facility in Marietta, Georgia, on May 28 to the aircraft’s new home.

VMGR-452 is the second Marine Reserve squadron to operate KC-130Js and this delivery signifies the recapitalization of the squadron’s existing KC-130T fleet. VMGR-452 — known as the Yankees — has operated Hercules tankers for more than 30 years, flying KC-130s in support of operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

KC-130s are operated in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) commander by providing tactical in-flight refueling for fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft; aviation delivered ground refueling of aircraft or tactical vehicles; assault air transport or air-landed or aerial-delivered (parachute) personnel and equipment; pathfinder support, battlefield illumination; tactical aeromedical evacuation; and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel support.

Compared to legacy models, the KC-130J delivers increased speed and fuel efficiency, improved payload/range capabilities, an integrated defensive suite, automated maintenance fault reporting, high-altitude ramp and door hydraulics, and unmatched situational awareness with its digital avionics and dual Head Up Displays.

The US Marine Corps operates the largest KC-130J Super Hercules fleet in the world.