The handover ceremony took place at RNZAF Base Auckland on September 10, 2024, attended by New Zealand’s Chief of Defence Force, Air Marshal (AM) Tony Davies, and Defence Minister Judith Collins.
Over the next few months, the five newly acquired C-130J aircraft will gradually take on the tasks previously performed by the five C-130H(NZ)s, which have been in service with the RNZAF for nearly 60 years. Three were originally delivered in 1965, followed by a further pair at the end of the decade. Two of the C-130H(NZ)s have already been withdrawn at RNZAF Base Woodbourne, in February (NZ7003) and November 2023 (NZ7004), ostensibly leaving three still in service. The first C-130J-30 was immediately tasked with transporting freight to air bases across the country and familiarising the force’s personnel with the new aircraft.
AM Davies highlighted the importance of the fleet renewal: "We have taken a huge step forward in our tactical air transport capability. The additional capabilities the new C-130J fleet brings will open up expanded roles for the aircraft to meet the needs of New Zealand and our partners." He explained that the Hercules would soon be deployed to support Antarctic operations, following in the footsteps of the orig…
