RAAF Upgrades Aircraft for Enhanced Capability and Mission Readiness

The Royal Australian Air Force has declared final operational capability on the Block 8.1 upgrade program for its C-130J Hercules fleet, operated by No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales. The upgrades, performed by Lockheed Martin and Airbus Australia Pacific, encompass critical improvements to aircraft systems, safety-critical software and hardware, and enhanced communications and navigation suites. CAE Australia completed corresponding upgrades to the C-130J full flight simulator. According to AeroTime, the Block 8.1 upgrades are designed to keep the current fleet at peak capability until new deliveries of expanded replacement aircraft are received later this decade.