LM-100J. Photo: Marco Riccio
Lockheed Martin’s LM-100J commercial freighter production aircraft has completed a successful maiden flight. It followed the same test flight route over North Georgia and Alabama that all Super Hercules aircraft use, Lockheed Martin said.
“This first flight is a source of pride for Lockheed Martin and serves as a proof-point to the ongoing versatility of the Super Hercules aircraft,” said George Shultz, VP and GM of Air Mobility & Maritime Missions, and Marietta site general manager. “I’m continually impressed by the commitment to quality and relevance that our employees, industry partners and customers have invested into the LM-100J. Like its military counterpart, the LM‑100J is exceeding all expectations in terms of performance and capabilities.”
The commercial version of the C-130J is designated to perform roles like humanitarian service, nuclear accident response, oil spill containment, oil and gas exploration, mining, and firefighting.
The LM-100J can now complete initial production flight tests, followed by FAA type certification update flight test requirements.
This is the 17th different mission capability developed for the C-130J Super Hercules, Lockheed Martin said. All Super Hercules are based on the L-100 cargo aircraft, produced from 1964 to 1992.