The first South Korean C-130J made its inaugural flight at Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Marietta, Ga., announced company officials. Aircraft No. 5730, one of four C-130Js that South Korea ordered in late 2010, flew on Aug. 14, states the company’s release. These airplanes are scheduled for delivery in 2014, according to the company. South Korea currently flies the C-130H model. Lockheed Martin unveiled the paint scheme for the South Korean aircraft in June.
The United States Air Force is flying less than historic norms and funding for acquisition and readiness is on a path to further hollow out this too small and old force to that is incapable of sustaining an enduring combat air campaign.
