Special mission versions of the C-130J Super Hercules are becoming a regular sight on the Lockheed Martin flightline here. First in line (on right) is an Indian Air Force aircraft, which is based on the C-130J long airframe, configured to meet that operator’s special operations forces requirement. Next on the line are the first of the new MC-130J Combat Shadow IIs that are being prepared for delivery to U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command. The third aircraft configuration is the new HC-130J Combat King II personnel recovery aircraft developed for the U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command. The HC and MC-130Js are built off the U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J tanker variant that utilizes the shorter airframe. Unique individual customer and mission requirements are incorporated during production, thus eliminating the costs traditionally associated with post-production modifications.

Source and photo: Lockheed Martin