The 61st Airlift Squadron at Little Rock AFB, Ark., took delivery of another new-build C-130J transport. Maj. Gen. Michael Stough, Air Mobility Command’s director of strategic plans, requirements, and programs, on Oct. 23 ferried the aircraft, tail number 5756, from Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Marietta, Ga., to its new home, according to the company’s release. The base’s Facebook page stated that “the delivery of this aircraft marks the ninth C-130J to be delivered to the 61st Airlift Squadron.” The C-130Js are replacing the unit’s C-130Hs.
The Air Force has embraced new technical approaches like open mission systems and rapid software updates for cutting-edge aircraft like the B-21 and Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Increasingly, though, the service is also working to apply these to its older, “legacy” aircraft, officials said this week.