Air Mobility Command has declared initial operational capability for the C-130J after the new Hercules transport met “specific criteria,” outlined in this AMC news release. Basically mobility crews employed real field conditions over nine months of testing, showing both what the aircraft could do and how well the aircrews could handle the aircraft. AMC noted that the Maryland Air National Guard’s 135th Airlift Group was the first operational unit to get its full complement of aircraft, or primary aircraft authorized, and has reached the IOC manning requirement. Maryland ANG airmen have deployed frequently to Southwest Asia with the J model.
Skunk Works Uncrewed NGAS Concept Gets New Attention
Nov. 9, 2024
An artist’s rendering of a Lockheed Martin Skunk Works concept for a potential stealthy and autonomous Next-Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS) aircraft is getting new attention after a repeat display at the recent Airlift/Tanker Association meeting.