C-130J

An MC-130J Commando II designated for Kirtland, was ferried Dec. 5 from the Lockheed Martin plant in Marietta, Ga. This aircraft, the 200th C-130J delivered to the U.S. government, is assigned to Air Force Special Operations Command. It supports such missions as in-flight refueling, infiltration/exfiltration, and aerial delivery and resupply of special operations forces. (Courtesy photo)

58th SOW, Lockheed Martin celebrate one million C-130J flight hours

Published Dec. 19, 2013
By Kendahl Johnson
37tth Air Base Wing Public Affairs

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The 58th Special Operations Wing and Lockheed Martin celebrated one million flight hours for the C-130J in a ceremony at Kirtland Dec. 18.

Representatives from Lockheed Martin visited Hangar 1002 to present to the leaders from the 58th SOW a shadow box commemorating the milestone.

"The C-130J has meant a lot to special operations and the rescue community," said Col. Dwight Davis, 58th Operations Group commander. "It's reliable and a safe aircraft to fly."

The MC-130J supports such missions as in-flight refueling, infiltration/exfiltration, and aerial delivery and resupply of special operations forces.

"The mission capable rates are phenomenal. It's amazing knowing when you get in the aircraft, all four engines will start up and you'll be able to accomplish your mission successfully," Davis said.

The group recently got its fourth and final MC130J. It was delivered from Lockheed Martin Dec. 5. The unit will receive its third and final HC130J next year.

A million C-130J flight hours

C-130J