Lockheed Martin (C-130), Boeing (C-17) C-130 Hercules (foreground), C-17 Globemaster III (background)

17 Dec 2025 · © Unknown

These versatile military transports are key assets for humanitarian, disaster relief, and military operations throughout the Pacific region. The pairing is iconic for airshows and exercises,

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Aircraft

C-130 Hercules (foreground), C-17 Globemaster III (background) C130 for foreground, C17 for background

Military grey, Air Force markings

Airline

Royal New Zealand Air Force (implied by image context and livery on C-17 (NZ) and C-130)

Manufacturer

Lockheed Martin (C-130), Boeing (C-17)

Insights

Aviation History

The C-130 Hercules is the most widely used military transport aircraft, in service since the 1950s. The C-17 Globemaster III is the USAF's primary strategic and tactical airlifter.

Fleet Rarity

Neither type is extremely rare: hundreds of each have been built, but specific military operators may have only a few.

Record Flights

C-130s have served in every major conflict since the 1950s. The C-17 completed record missions for Antarctic supply flights.

Safety & Events

C-130s have been involved in humanitarian air drops and military special operations. C-17s have done massive airlifts and medical evacuation missions.

Future Outlook

Both models are still in active military service worldwide.

Specifications

C-130: 4 × Allison T56-A-15 turboprop, C-17: 4 × Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 turbofan

Engine

C-130: 40.4 m, C-17: 51.75 m

Wingspan

C-130: 29.8 m, C-17: 53 m

Length

C-130: approx. 3,800 km, C-17: approx. 4,482 km (full payload)

Range

C-130: 540 km/h, C-17: 830 km/h

Speed

C-130: 92 passengers or 19,050 kg cargo, C-17: 134 troops or 77,519 kg cargo

Capacity

C-130: 70,307 kg, C-17: 265,352 kg

MTOW

C-130: 11.9 m, C-17: 16.8 m

Height

C-130: 4 × 4,637 shp, C-17: 4 × 181 kN (40,400 lbf)

Thrust

C-130: ICAO Chap 3/4; C-17: ICAO Chap 4 (approx. 85-90 dB on takeoff)

Noise

Model/variant identification based on general airframe and known New Zealand Air Force fleet; registration is not clear.