The development of the C-130 Hercules, which has successfully served in the inventory of many countries since its introduction in 1956, continues. On the other hand, users retire platforms that have reached the end of their economic life in inventory.
Belgium has announced that fourth of the C-130H Hercules transport aircraft that have been in its inventory for nearly 50 years has been phased out. Currently, seven of the platforms planned to be replaced by Airbus A400Ms continue to operate in the country's inventory. Brussels, which has put all its platforms on sale, expect to receive the first A400M Atlas in the coming months.
The platform has CH-04 serial number, which served in the 20th Squadron of the 15th Airlift Wing, made its last flight on July 23. The Belgian Air Force aims to take all C-130 Hercules out of service until December 2021. On the other hand, it was announced that all platforms, spare parts and all related equipment and hardware were put up for sale. It was stated that the handover of these systems was also require to US approval.
211216-N-QI061-1222 NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (December 16, 2021) An MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), assigned to Unmanned Patrol Squadron 19 (VUP-19), sits on the flight line at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Dec. 16, 2021. VUP-19, the Navy’s first Triton squadron, will continue to maintain and operate the aircraft off the East Coast to further develop the concept of operations and refine tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan T. Beard/ Released)