Which is bigger, C-130 or C-17?
The C-17 Globemaster III measures 174 long, 55 feet one inch tall with a wingspan of 169 feet 10 inches. The C-130E, C-130H, and C-130J – three main variants of the six-decade-old aircraft that are currently active – are noticeably smaller than the C-17. Payload Capacity C-5 Galaxy: Can carry a mind-blowing 280,000 lbs (127,000 kg) of cargo—more than any U. S. C-17 Globemaster III: Holds up to 170,900 lbs (77,500 kg), still enormous but nearly 40% less than the C-5.
Which is older, B-52 or C-130?
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. The Herk, or Herc, (an endearing nickname for the C-130 Hercules), is the present-day variation of the YC-130 and has served in multitude of roles, and its influence and legacy has been widespread throughout its time with the Air Force.
Why is the C-130 so popular?
Seven decades ago, the C-130 had an original usage as a medium cargo plane able to land in short, confined runways. As the mission and needs of the fleet changed, the aircraft moved into providing tactical airlift, humanitarian aid, air support, and various mission support across the globe. Using its aft loading ramp and door, the C-130 can accommodate a wide variety of oversized cargo, including everything from utility helicopters and six-wheeled armored vehicles to standard palletized cargo and military personnel.The C-130J-30 is the most common cargo configuration used by air forces worldwide. The KC-130J is a short-body model with an integrated air-to-air refueling system.