C-130J Hercules Lands on Beach
We’ve seen and posted some pretty amazing feats of airlifters. As amazing as the C-17 or C-5 jets are, there is something really special about the Herc. With its four fans of freedom that allow it to takeoff and land in very short distances (even an aircraft carrier!), and its landing gear that means its displacement is uniquely light on landing surfaces.
This video footage features a pilot being trained to land a C-130J Hercules on an unusual surface…a beach. We think the footage is shot along various beaches on the shores of western Denmark, known as Vejers Strand.
The C-130 is able to land on such austere surfaces for a couple of reasons. The first is that the high wing, high lift aircraft is well suited for slow-speed landings and short takeoffs. Additionally, the gear is designed such that the weight displacement on the C-130 on a per-tire basis is actually relatively low. This means that the C-130 is less likely to create deep ruts or destroy austere runways surfaces like compacted sand or dirt.
About the C-130 Hercules
The C-130 Hercules is a four engined turboprop military transport plane, designed and built by Lockheed. The aircraft is known for being able to use unprepared runways for takeoffs and landings. It was originally designed to transport troops, cargo, and medevac equipment. It has also been used as an AC-130 gunship, for airborne assault, for search and rescue efforts, for scientific research and support, for weather reconnaissance, for aerial refueling, aerial firefighting, and maritime patrol.
History of the Herc
The C-130 took its maiden voyage on August 23rd of 1954, and was introduced into service that same year. As of 2015, more than 2,500 of this type of aircraft have been built, and the aircraft is still in production today.
The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is the main aircraft of Air Forces around the world. Primary users of the C-130 are the United States Air Force (USAF), the United States Marine Corps, the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The most recent variant of this aircraft is the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules.
In 2007, the Lockheed C-130 Hercules became the fifth aircraft to celebrate 50 years of continuous service with its original buyer, which was, in the case, the United States Air Force.
