The Hellenic Air Force has taken a significant step to strengthen its airlift and support capabilities by submitting a formal request to the United States for the acquisition of three C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft. According to reports, two of the requested aircraft are planned to be converted into aerial refueling tankers, which would considerably expand Greece’s air power projection and sustainment capacity during joint and NATO operations.

Greece intends to employ the C-130J-30 fleet across a wide range of missions, including troop and equipment transport, special operations support, search-and-rescue missions, and medical evacuation operations. The C-130J-30, produced by Lockheed Martin, is currently considered the leading option due to its proven reliability, advanced avionics, and interoperability with allied forces. However, Greek authorities are also evaluating the Embraer C-390 Millennium as an alternative, reflecting Athens’ broader effort to assess cost, performance, and industrial participation opportunities.

The potential involvement of the Hellenic Aerospace Industry is a key element of the procurement plan, particularly in areas such as maintenance, repair, overhaul, and possible local industrial contributions. This approach aligns with Greece’s long-term goal of enhancing domestic aerospace capabilities while modernizing its military fleet.

Technically, the C-130J-30 Super Hercules represents a substantial upgrade over earlier C-130 variants. The aircraft features a fuselage stretched by 15 feet (4.6 meters), allowing it to carry two additional cargo pallets. Its modern two-pilot cockpit is equipped with fully digital avionics, color multifunction displays, head-up displays, and an integrated navigation suite combining dual inertial navigation systems with GPS.

Powered by new-generation turboprop engines with six-bladed composite propellers, the C-130J-30 can carry payloads of up to 44,000 pounds (approximately 20,000 kilograms). It can reach altitudes of 26,000 feet, cruise at speeds of around 410 miles per hour (660 kilometers per hour), and achieve an operational range exceeding 2,400 miles (3,900 kilometers) at full payload, making it a versatile and strategic asset for the Hellenic Air Force.