How far can AC-130 fly without refueling?
HC-130J – Coast Guard – This Hercules is used for long-range search and rescue missions. At 33,000 feet, it cruises at 374 mph, and it can go an impressive 5,000 miles without refueling. The C-130 Hercules primarily performs the tactical portion of the airlift mission. The aircraft is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for airdropping troops and equipment into hostile areas.The IAF currently operates 12 C-130J-30s, proven in high-altitude missions at Daulat Beg Oldi in the Himalayas and at other forward airfields where the Super Hercules’ performance is unmatched. A domestic depot facility removes the need to send aircraft overseas for heavy maintenance, sharply reducing downtime.The C-130J-30 Hercules can carry up to 124 passengers, or eight pallets of cargo. It can work alongside other airlifters, including the C-27J Spartan and C-17A Globemaster III. Upgrades to the C-130J-30 have enhanced communications and information-sharing, and improved the aircraft’s endurance during battle.
How many people can AC-130 Hercules carry?
The C-130J-30 Hercules can carry up to 124 passengers, or eight pallets of cargo. It can work alongside other airlifters, including the C-27J Spartan and C-17A Globemaster III. Upgrades to the C-130J-30 have enhanced communications and information-sharing, and improved the aircraft’s endurance during battle. As a final point in the C-130’s favor, it costs around $10,000-$15,000 per hour to operate the Hercules. The C-17 Globemaster III? About $24,000/hr. The C-5 Galaxy, on the other hand, costs over $100,000 per hour.However, all currently manufactured Hercules aircraft are of the C-130J Super Hercules variant. Over 500 C-130J aircraft have been delivered to 26 operators in 22 countries. The unit flyaway cost of the C-130J was just over $67 million in FY2016, or around $87 million in today’s dollars.
How many countries use the C-130 Hercules?
Since its inception in 1954, the Hercules continues to be used in over 70 countries with more than a million flight hours and growing. Seven decades ago, the C-130 had an original usage as a medium cargo plane able to land in short, confined runways. The C-130 Hercules first flew in 1954 so the B-52 is older and still flying. But so is the Herk and they are still building new ones today.