Dyess AFB, Tex., received its sixth new-build C-130J transport, fresh from Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Marietta Ga., according to a company release. “The latest C-130J delivery represents another key step in continuing efforts to modernize our inventory to provide the best tactical airlift to commanders across the globe,” said Lt. Gen. Robert Allardice, 18th Air Force commander, during the Sept. 8 handover. Dyess’ 317th Airlift Group will eventually boast USAF’s largest C-130J fleet, with plans to operate a total of 28 Super Hercules aircraft—the last of which is due to arrive in 2013. The base’s long history with the Hercules began in 1961, when it took delivery of its initial batch of C-130As and C-130Ds.
The Air Force could conduct an operation like Israel's successful air campaign against Iran's nuclear sites, military leadership and air defenses, but readiness issues would make it risky, airpower experts said. Limited spare parts and training, low mission capable rates and few flying hours would put a drag on USAF's…