First HC-130J Combat Rescue Tanker Completes Assembly

The first of a new fleet of combat rescue tankers for the U.S. Air Force’s Air Combat Command left Lockheed Martin’s main assembly building here, April 3.

The plane is now in the painting facility, then will enter production flight testing.

The aircraft represents a new configuration of the world’s most advanced airlifter and will be formally presented to the Air Force at a ceremony, April 19, then delivered later this year.

The HC-130J will undergo flight testing to meet an Initial Operating Capability date in mid-2012.

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