LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- The C-130 Hercules first took flight on Aug. 23, 1954, in Burbank, California, and since that day has been providing rugged, reliable tactical airlift capability unmatched by any other aircraft in the skies.
During the Korean War, the United States discovered a need for a single aircraft that could perform in the role of many. The ability to operate from short runways, carry troops and supplies and conduct airdrops defined the C-130 aircraft—and that was just the beginning of the many functionalities possible for the mighty Hercules.
Over its 70 years of service, it has demonstrated consistent reliability in a constantly changing threat environment, seamlessly integrating with any mission set. Over 70 variants of the aircraft have been produced, including models equipped for close air support, weather surveillance and search and rescue to name only a few.
The C-130 has been and always will be an aircraft undergoing constant innovation, equipped for today’s fight and ready for tomorrow’s mission.
Little Rock Air Force Base began tactical airlift operations and training after welcoming its first C-130 on March 4, 1970. Less than a month later, command of the base would change from Strategic Air Command to Tactical Air Command.
Today, Little Rock AFB is home to the largest C-130 fleet in the world and provides the Department of Defense mission ready Airmen paired with unrivaled tactical airlift.
Operating with the newest model of the aircraft, the C-130J Super Hercules, the 19th Airlift Wing has witnessed a vast expansion in the role of the aircraft since the 1970s. The wing's responsibilities range from supplying humanitarian airlift relief to victims of disasters, to airdropping supplies and troops into the heart of contingency operations.
“The story of the C-130 Hercules is one of innovation and adaptability,” said Col. Denny Davies, 19th AW commander. “The C-130 is more than just an airplane; it is a symbol of versatility and reliability.”
Still in production today, the C-130 holds the title for the longest continuous aircraft production run in history. The C-130J alone has completed more than 1.2 million flight hours and is present in 68 countries, capable of providing tactical airlift anywhere in the world, at any time.
“It has played a critical role in countless conflicts around the globe,” Davies said. “It’s adaptability makes it a cornerstone of our worldwide-joint maneuver and it defines ‘TacAir Anywhere.’”