Ankara is strengthening its air transport fleet with the delivery of 12 modernised C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
Türkiye has completed the transfer process of 12 C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft previously operated by the Royal Air Force (RAF) of the United Kingdom. Before being inducted into the Turkish Air Force inventory, the aircraft will undergo maintenance and modernisation work in the UK.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of National Defence, the delivery was completed as of 16 October 2025, and the aircraft will be gradually handed over to the Turkish Air Force following the modernisation process. The announcement was shared with the public during the Ministry’s weekly briefing and via its official X (Twitter) account.
Strategic Boost in the Medium Segment
The C-130J Super Hercules aircraft will fill a crucial gap in Türkiye’s existing air transport fleet, positioned between the lighter CN235 and the heavier A400M aircraft.
The extended C-130J-30 configuration, with a payload capacity of 19–20 tonnes, is optimised for paratroop deployment, palletised cargo, and MEDEVAC missions.
These new platforms will provide Türkiye with short-runway operational capability and reduced operating costs, offering significant advantages for humanitarian aid and special operations missions. This approach is seen as being in line with the dual-fleet modernisation model adopted by many NATO member states.
Deepening Defence Cooperation with the United Kingdom
This transfer also strengthens industrial and military cooperation between Türkiye and the United Kingdom.
While London completes its transition to the A400M model within the RAF fleet, Ankara is expanding its own fleet cost-effectively with modernised Hercules airframes.
Turkish officials stated that after maintenance and type training conducted in the UK, routine maintenance operations are planned to be carried out domestically. In doing so, Turkey aims to enhance its national support capacity for its air transport fleets.
NATO-Compatible Force Projection
With the introduction of the C-130J aircraft, Turkey will bolster its humanitarian aid and tactical operation capabilities across the Balkans, Caucasus, and Eastern Mediterranean regions.
