27 MC-130J Commando II
In 1997, the vulnerability of the non-stealthy MC-130 force in the modern high-threat environment was becoming problematic. The USAF conducted studies on a possible replacement for the MC-130 fleet, known as the “MC-X” or “M-X” programs, with operating capability by 2018. The priority was a stealthy replacement with enhanced capabilities to support Special Operating Forces (SOF) insertion and extraction into denied areas from strategic distances. While the investigation proceeded, the USAF sought to modernize its current force, intending to procure 37 MC-130J aircraft to replace its MC-130Es and MC-130Ps, which were 40 years old. The new MC-130J was based on the KC-130J tanker operated by the US Marine Corps but with added features for combat search and rescue and special operations missions. The MC-130J adds an Enhanced Service Life Wing, and Enhanced Cargo Handling System, a Universal Aerial Refuelling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI) boom refuelling receptacle, more powerful electrical generators, an electro-optical/infrared sensor, a combat systems officer (CSO) station on the flight deck, provisions for the Large Aircraft Countermeasures System, and additional armour.
In this image, an MC-130J (serial number: 10-5714) of the 67th Special Operations Squadron (67th SOS), flies through inclement weather. The aircraft is shown with tailband markings commemorating the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. The 67th SOS, the “Night Owls,” has been stationed at RAF Mildenhall since May 1993. By June 2013, the Night Owls received their first MC-130J Commando II. On 31 October 2020, 67th SOS Commando IIs participated in the successful rescue of Philip Warton, who was being held hostage in Nigeria. In August 2024, the 67th SOS refuelled Finnish Air Force F/A-18C Hornets during a training exercise. In March 2024, the 67th SOS transitioned from the MC130J to the Fairchild Dornier C-146A Wolfhound.
27 MC-130J Commando II
In 1997, the vulnerability of the non-stealthy MC-130 force in the modern high-threat environment was becoming problematic. The USAF conducted studies on a possible replacement for the MC-130 fleet, known as the “MC-X” or “M-X” programs, with operating capability by 2018. The priority was a stealthy replacement with enhanced capabilities to support Special Operating Forces (SOF) insertion and extraction into denied areas from strategic distances. While the investigation proceeded, the USAF sought to modernize its current force, intending to procure 37 MC-130J aircraft to replace its MC-130Es and MC-130Ps, which were 40 years old. The new MC-130J was based on the KC-130J tanker operated by the US Marine Corps but with added features for combat search and rescue and special operations missions. The MC-130J adds an Enhanced Service Life Wing, and Enhanced Cargo Handling System, a Universal Aerial Refuelling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI) boom refuelling receptacle, more powerful electrical generators, an electro-optical/infrared sensor, a combat systems officer (CSO) station on the flight deck, provisions for the Large Aircraft Countermeasures System, and additional armour.
In this image, an MC-130J (serial number: 10-5714) of the 67th Special Operations Squadron (67th SOS), flies through inclement weather. The aircraft is shown with tailband markings commemorating the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. The 67th SOS, the “Night Owls,” has been stationed at RAF Mildenhall since May 1993. By June 2013, the Night Owls received their first MC-130J Commando II. On 31 October 2020, 67th SOS Commando IIs participated in the successful rescue of Philip Warton, who was being held hostage in Nigeria. In August 2024, the 67th SOS refuelled Finnish Air Force F/A-18C Hornets during a training exercise. In March 2024, the 67th SOS transitioned from the MC130J to the Fairchild Dornier C-146A Wolfhound.