Hercules
The Hercules C-130 is the largest aircraft to be photographed low level in almost all low flying areas in the UK. Michael ranks this aircraft in the same league as the fast jet front liners - it is such an undeniably impressive sight to see one or two, in line astern, seemingly lumbering through a narrow valley or glen, making tight banking turns as they navigate through the terrain!
There are currently two versions of the Hercules transport aircraft flying with the RAF’s Air Transport fleet; the C-130K C1/3 and the C-130J C4/5. The first version is designed to carry troops, passengers and/or freight, whist the second version is designed for operational missions carrying special forces, paratroops and/or air dispatch duties. All versions are capable of operating day and night, in all weathers. C-130Ks are operated by 47 and 70 Squadrons, whilst the C-130Js are operated by XXIV and 30 Squadrons. Until August 2011 Hercules were based at RAF Lyneham. Because of the irrational closure of Lyneham the new Hercules base is RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire.
All photographs copyright © Michael Leek 2004-2012
A V I A G R A P H I C A
There are currently two versions of the Hercules transport aircraft flying with the RAF’s Air Transport fleet; the C-130K C1/3 and the C-130J C4/5. The first version is designed to carry troops, passengers and/or freight, whist the second version is designed for operational missions carrying special forces, paratroops and/or air dispatch duties. All versions are capable of operating day and night, in all weathers. C-130Ks are operated by 47 and 70 Squadrons, whilst the C-130Js are operated by XXIV and 30 Squadrons. Until August 2011 Hercules were based at RAF Lyneham. Because of the irrational closure of Lyneham the new Hercules base is RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire.
All photographs copyright © Michael Leek 2004-2012
A V I A G R A P H I C A