Lockheed Martin has been notified by the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) that Denmark will exercise the option for an additional C-130J Super Hercules. Denmark has already taken delivery of three of the advanced airlifters since placing its first order on Dec. 1, 2000.

"In a year that marks the fiftieth anniversary of the first flight of the C-130, it is truly an honor to lead a program that has such a significant place in aviation history," said Ross Reynolds, Lockheed Martin C-130J program vice president, during a press conference at the Farnborough Air Show. "This order from Denmark is a result of the outstanding performance that the C-130J has demonstrated to this customer. The new generation of C-130 is proving to be as vital to global operations as its predecessors. The changing face of the battle space means that light, fast deployment is the pressing need. No aircraft in the world provides that capability better than a C-130. With 50 years of experience behind us, we look forward to 50 more."

The Danish aircraft, which are the long-fuselage version of the C-130J, feature a strengthened cargo ramp and improved airdrop system, which allow crews to make airdrops at 250 knots, helping them avoid antiaircraft fire in hostile areas; the Enhanced Cargo Handling System, which allows for rapidly converting the aircraft from hauling rolling stock to palletized cargo; as well as RDAF-specific items including a tailored electronic warfare suite.

One of the missions of the RDAF is to conduct air transport operations for the Danish Defense Forces and other international operations. A number of RDAF units have been designated for service with NATO's reaction forces in connection with international military operations. This commitment includes a dozen F-16s and one C-130, which will soon be one of the C-130Js. The RDAF is expected to be operational with their C-130Js this fall.

More than 2,260 Hercules aircraft of all types in more than 70 different variants have been delivered to 60 countries since the program began. Today, 67 countries, counting those that bought used aircraft, fly the Hercules. The C-130J is the latest version to come off the longest, continuous, active military aircraft production line in history.

A total of 179 C-130Js are on order, and 113 have been delivered to date. In the United States, Air Force Reserve Command and Air National Guard units fly C-130Js. The Marine Corps operates KC-130J tankers and the Coast Guard is now introducing the HC-130J into service. International C-130J operators include the Royal Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Italian Air Force and Royal Danish Air Force. The capabilities and performance of the C-130J in supporting light, fast and lethal combat operations make it a true transformational asset.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., a business area of Lockheed Martin, is a leader in the design, research and development, systems integration, production and support of advanced military aircraft and related technologies. Its customers include the military services of the United States and allied countries throughout the world. Products include the F-16, F/A-22, F-35 JSF, F-117, C-5, C-130, C-130J, P-3, S-3 and U-2. The company produces major components for the F-2 fighter and is a co-developer of the C-27J tactical transport and T-50 advanced jet trainer.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin Corp. employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company