Lockheed Martin to deliver C-130J Super Hercules training devices, updates to RAAF

“We’re honoured to continue our longstanding partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force to enhance and expand their training capabilities,” according to Todd Morar, vice president of air and commercial systems at Lockheed Martin.

“As the original equipment manufacturer of the C-130J, our knowledge of the aircraft and its operational flight program enable us to provide the most authentic, mission‑ready training tools available, preparing Australian aircrews to master the aircraft on day one.”

The new training devices feature modern graphics, motion cueing and high-fidelity cockpit replication that mirror the operational C-130J.

The devices are built for concurrency with the RAAF’s upcoming C-130J-30 acquisitions, enabling rapid fielding of new capabilities.

“Our focus is preparing a mission-ready future force through the use of advanced technologies that reduce risk, cost and timelines, while improving capability to give Defence an operational edge,” according to Peter Ashworth, Lockheed Martin Australia’s director of global training systems.

“Lockheed Martin Australia looks forward to supporting the Royal Australian Air Force with its C[1]130J training requirements to ensure RAAF personnel are equipped with the critical skills needed to achieve the mission.”

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The RAAF has utilised C-130 aircraft in operations since 1958 and currently operates a fleet of 12 C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft.

Under a 2022 foreign military sale agreement, the United States approved the sale of up to 24 additional C-130J-30 airlifters.

In July 2023, Australia exercised that option, formally acquiring 20 new C-130J-30 aircraft to replace and augment its existing fleet. The first of these aircraft is expected to arrive in 2028, expanding the RAAF’s tactical-airlift capability and supporting No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond.

C-130J Super Hercules aircraft are in service with 28 operators across 23 nations.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.