Australia’s C-130J Hercules fleet completes Block 8.1 upgrade at RAAF Richmond

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has declared final operational capability on a major upgrade program for its entire fleet of 12 C-130J Hercules aircraft.

The fleet, operated by No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales, has been brought up to the latest Block 8.1 configuration under Project AIR 5440. 

According to the RAAF, the upgrades encompass critical improvements to aircraft systems, safety-critical software and hardware, enhancing overall capability, reliability and mission readiness.

Beyond the core systems upgrade, the aircraft received substantial enhancements to their communications and navigation suites. The new capabilities include datalink systems, integrated satellite voice communications, upgraded high-frequency radios, and improved instrument approach systems.

Lockheed Martin performed the first aircraft upgrade in the United States, with support from the US Air Force.The remaining 11 aircraft were modified locally in Australia at RAAF Base Richmond by Airbus Australia Pacific, the C-130J sustainment partner for the region. CAE Australia completed corresponding upgrades to the C-130J full flight simulator.

The C-130J Hercules has served the Australian Defense Force since 1999, providing medium air mobility between the smaller C-27J Spartan and larger C-17A Globemaster III. The aircraft can transport approximately 120 passengers or up to 20 tons of cargo.

The Block 8.1 upgrades are designed to keep the current fleet at peak capability until Australia begins to receive deliveries of its expanded replacement fleet of 20 new C-130J Hercules aircraft later this decade.

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