The C130 Hercules, also known as the 'Fat Albert' (after an American comic book character), entered service with the RAF in 1967. It is a 4 engined tactical support aircraft capable of carrying up to 92 ground troops, 64 paratroops, 74 stretcher cases or a variety of vehicles and freight up to 20 tons in weight over distances of up to 4,600 miles at speeds in excess of 300 knots.

The original 'stretch' modification, carried out in 1980, added an extra 15 feet of fuselage. The aircraft was split into 3 parts and 2 extra sections were added; one behind the cockpit, and one just in front of the ramp at the rear. This increased the volume of the cargo compartment by 37%.

Here are some more great photographs of the Hercules in action. To view any of them, click on the image and it will open in a new window.

24 Squadron	30 Squadron	47 Squadron	70 Squadron