The U.S. Air National Guard received its first HC-130J Combat King II. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin
The 211th Rescue Squadron, 176th Wing, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, is the first U.S. Air National Guard unit to take delivery of a Lockheed Martin HC-130J Combat King II, Lockheed Martin said. It is to be operated by the 211th Rescue Squadron, 176th Wing, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.
Planning to take delivery of four total HC-130Js, the Alaska Guard would use them as replacements legacy FHC-130Ps. The new aircraft are to support personnel recovery missions in Alaska and the Pacific Theater and act as aerial refuelers for the Sikorsky HH-60 Pave Hawk search and rescue helicopter.
“The delivery of this HC-130J Combat King II represents a new era for both the Air National Guard and the Alaska Guard. This aircraft provides the increased capabilities and enhanced performance that is essential for these Airmen to support their search and rescue mission,” said George Shultz, VP and general manager for air mobility and maritime missions at Lockheed Martin. “These men and women live their motto – ‘That Others May Live.’ We’re proud the HC‑130J Combat King fleet plays an essential role in supporting this commitment.”
Lockheed Martin said the HC-130J replaces the HC-130N/P as the Air Force inventory’s only dedicated fixed-wing personnel recovery platform. It can perform airdrop, airland, helicopter air-to-air refueling and forward-area ground refueling missions. It is one of eight production variants of C-130J Super Hercules.