Türkiye reportedly preparing to acquire 12 C-130J transport aircraft from UK

Türkiye is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations to acquire 12 second-hand C-130J military transport aircraft from the United Kingdom, according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions.

If finalized, the procurement is expected to significantly bolster the Turkish Air Force’s strategic and tactical transport capacity.

Türkiye advances in C-130J acquisition talks

Negotiations between Türkiye and the U.K. over the purchase of the retired Royal Air Force (RAF) C-130J aircraft have reportedly reached their final stages.

Sources indicate that Türkiye has prioritized the acquisition of these aircraft over additional Airbus A400M transport planes. However, no official confirmation has been made regarding the finalization of the deal.

Currently, the Turkish Air Force operates a fleet of 19 C-130 aircraft. The reported procurement of the C-130J-30 model, known for its extended fuselage and increased cargo capacity, is expected to provide significant operational benefits.

If the acquisition is completed, it will not only improve Türkiye’s overall transport fleet but also alleviate the operational burden on its A400M aircraft.

Background on UK’s C-130J fleet

The U.K. decided to retire 14 C-130J Hercules aircraft as part of its 2021 Defense Command Paper. The fleet consists of 13 extended-fuselage C-130J-30 (designated as C4) aircraft and one standard C-130J (C5).

The sale is managed by the U.K.’s Defence Equipment Sales Authority (DESA), which has undertaken maintenance work to increase the market value of the aircraft.

Several critical components, including the Center Wing Box (CWB), have been replaced to extend their service life.

The RAF originally placed an order for these aircraft in 1994, receiving 10 C-130Js and 15 C-130J-30s.

The first C-130J-30 entered service in August 1998 and was stationed at RAF Lyneham. The aircraft were extensively used in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, performing logistical support, airdrop missions, and medical evacuations.

Specifications of C-130J and C-130J-30

General Characteristics:

• Crew: three to four (pilot, co-pilot, loadmaster, optional systems operator)
• Length:
  • C-130J: 34.37 meters
  • C-130J-30: 39.7 meters
• Wingspan: 40.41 meters
• Height: 11.9 meters
• Maximum takeoff weight:
  • C-130J: 74,390 kilograms
  • C-130J-30: 79,380 kilograms

Performance:

• Engines: 4 × Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop
• Engine Power: 4,637 shaft horsepower (shp) (3,458 kilowatts) each
• Maximum Speed: 671 kilometers per hour (362 knots, 417 miles per hour)
• Cruise Speed: 643 km/h (348 knots, 400 mph)
• Range:
  • C-130J: Approx. 4,000 km (2,485 miles)
  • C-130J-30: Approx. 5,200 km (3,230 miles)
• Service Ceiling: 8,615 meters (28,200 feet)

Payload Capacity:

• Maximum Cargo Load:
  • C-130J: 19,958 kg (44,000 lb)
  • C-130J-30: 27,216 kg (60,000 lb)
• Troop Transport Capacity:
  • C-130J: 92 passengers or 64 paratroopers or 74 medical evacuation patients
  • C-130J-30: 128 passengers or 92 paratroopers or 97 medical evacuation patients

Advantages of C-130J over previous models

Compared to earlier C-130E/H models, the C-130J Super Hercules features more powerful and efficient Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines, replacing the older Allison T56-A-15 engines.

This improvement results in higher speed and extended range.

The aircraft is equipped with advanced digital avionics, a glass cockpit, and a fly-by-wire flight control system, offering significant advantages over older analog-based systems.

Automated landing and takeoff capabilities enhance operational flexibility, while reduced maintenance costs make the C-130J a more efficient choice.

The extended-fuselage C-130J-30 version provides greater cargo and troop transport capacity, making it an ideal choice for Türkiye’s strategic airlift needs.

The aircraft is expected to integrate seamlessly into the Turkish Air Force’s existing C-130 fleet while offering improved operational efficiency.

Türkiye’s air transport modernization efforts

Türkiye is currently modernizing its C-130 fleet under the ERCIYES modernization program. Conducted at the 2nd Air Supply and Maintenance Center in Kayseri-Erkilet, the program involves the avionics modernization of 13 C-130E and six C-130B aircraft.

The reported acquisition of 12 C-130J-30s would further enhance Türkiye’s tactical airlift capability, replacing aging transport platforms and optimizing fleet efficiency.

The purchase is part of broader defense cooperation between Türkiye and the U.K., which also includes discussions on the procurement of Eurofighter typhoon aircraft and long-range air-to-air meteor missiles.

Future of Türkiye’s military transport fleet

In addition to the potential C-130J acquisition, Türkiye is exploring options to replace its aging CN235 transport fleet.

As operational demands continue to grow, the Turkish Air Force is evaluating various alternatives, including additional A400M aircraft and other tactical transport solutions.

The rumored procurement of 12 C-130J-30 aircraft from the U.K., if confirmed, would represent a critical step in Türkiye’s long-term defense planning, ensuring enhanced strategic mobility and logistical support for future military operations.

The deal, estimated to be worth approximately $740 million, remains under discussion, with official confirmation pending. Recently, a Turkish defense industry expert had published that Türkiye would procure five C-130Js from the U.K., not 12, but later removed the content.