USAF C-130 maintainers have a new engine shop that enables them to repair the Hercules airlifters in theater—eliminating the nearly four week lag time for a stateside replacement. With this new capability, the 386th Expeditionary Maintenance Group can get the heavily used C-130s back in the air normally within two to three days. And, then there is the money to be saved. TSgt. Scott Schlie, a C-130 engine manager, said, “Recently, our shop was able to repair two propellers, saving about $40,000.” Schlie said the 386th now has its own building with more than 1,000 different parts and 100 special tools.
The Air Force wants to “own and run” more of its air bases, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach said Nov. 6, in what could be a major potential revamp the military’s joint base program. Speaking at the Airlift/Tanker Association’s 2026 Symposium, Wilsbach said he and the…