Lockheed Martin is gearing up for the delivery of the first C‑130J Super Hercules to the Indian Air Force later this year. In 2008 the Indian Air Force ordered six C-130J’s for Special Services, with an option for six more.

      The order includes six aircraft, three years of initial support, training of aircrew and maintenance technicians, spares, ground support and test equipment, servicing carts, forklifts, loading vehicles, cargo pallets, and a team of technical specialists who will be based in India during the three year initial support period.

      Also included is India-unique operational equipment designed to increase Special Operations capabilities.

      The C-130J Super Hercules will provide the Indian Air Force with modern and effective airlift to support a wide range of national requirements. Due to the aircraft’s mission flexibility, several other departments in India have shown interest in the C-130J.

      These include the Border Security Force, Coast Guard and Weather Department, hence increasing the potential for additional sales to India.

      In keeping with IAF requirements, the US Government offered a unique C-130J configuration modified for special mission roles.

      Equipped with an Infrared Detection Set (IDS), the aircraft will be able to perform precision low-level flying, airdrops and landing in blackout conditions.

      Self-protection systems and other features are included to ensure aircraft survivability in hostile air defense environments.

      In addition, the aircraft is equipped with air-to-air receiver refueling capability for extended range operations.

      Lockheed Martin will integrate this equipment and other capabilities into the Indian configuration as agreed between the governments.

      The Indian Air Force’s new Super Hercules will be the longer fuselage or "stretched" variant of the C‑130J, similar to those being delivered to the U.S. Air Force.

      India joins the growing number of nations with C-130J fleets including Australia, Canada, Demark, Iraq, Italy, Norway, Oman, Qatar, United Kingdom and the United States.

      The C-130J carries eight 463L pallets, 97 medical litters, 24 CDS bundles, 128 combat troops and 92 paratroops.