The US Air Force C-130J Super Hercules will be featured in the static display at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, scheduled for November 17-21 at Dubai World Central in the United Arab Emirates.

The aircraft represents the latest generation of the iconic Hercules line.

Known worldwide for reliability and flexibility, the C-130J remains a cornerstone of military transport and logistics operations.

Designed to perform a wide range of missions -- from tactical airlift and aeromedical evacuation to special operations and airdrops -- the C-130J combines power, endurance, and adaptability.

Its design allows it to operate from short, rough, or unimproved runways, making it indispensable to Agile Combat Employment (ACE) operations.

The ACE concept emphasizes a mobile and flexible fleet capable of functioning from dispersed bases to maintain operational resilience.

The C-130J’s ability to deploy rapidly and perform multiple roles aligns seamlessly with this approach, reinforcing its strategic value in modern air operations.

Heavy lift, high efficiency

The C-130J can airdrop up to 19,000 kilograms of cargo and quickly reconfigure between transport and medical evacuation roles, enabling swift adaptation to mission demands.

Advanced avionics -- such as digital autopilot, GPS-based navigation, terrain awareness, and integrated self-defense systems -- enhance pilot awareness and flight safety while reducing workload.

With a range of 3,330 kilometers (2,070 miles) at standard payload and up to 3,890 kilometers (2,416 miles) for the extended C-130J-30 Super Hercules variant, the aircraft expands operational reach across theaters.

Its high-efficiency turboprop engines deliver greater thrust and improved fuel economy, offering extended endurance and mission sustainability.

Depending on configuration, the C-130J accommodates six 463L pallets, up to 128 troops, or as many as 97 medical liters.

This flexibility allows one aircraft to support multiple mission types, embodying the core principles of ACE.

Crew requirements have also been reduced from five in earlier Hercules models to just three in the C-130J, thanks to automation and integrated avionics.

Features such as heads-up displays, moving maps, and combined GPS/INS navigation further improve situational awareness and streamline operations.

These advancements lower maintenance needs, cut operating costs, and allow faster mission turnaround -- key advantages in high-tempo environments.

The Hercules platform also supports specialized variants, including maritime patrol versions equipped with coastal surveillance systems and the AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, armed with 30 mm and 105 mm cannons and guided munitions for close air support and reconnaissance missions.

Decades after its debut, the C-130J Super Hercules remains one of the most capable and trusted tactical air-lifters in service, balancing performance, efficiency, and versatility to meet evolving global mobility demands.