Most of the information in this fact sheet was obtained from the US Airforce site. All information is general and not varient specific. If you find some wrong information, or can add anything please e-mail me.

Description
The C-130 Hercules primarily performs the intratheater portion of the airlift mission. The aircraft is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for paradropping troops and equipment into hostile areas.

History and Features
After four decades since the Air Force issued its original design specification, the remarkable C-130 Hercules remains in production. The initial production model was the C-130A, with four Allison T56-A-11 or -9 turboprops. A total of 219 were ordered and deliveries began in December 1956. Two DC-130A's (originally GC-130A's) were built as drone launchers/directors, carrying up to four drones on underwing pylons. All special equipment was removable, permitting the aircraft to be used as freighters, assault transports, or ambulances.

The C-130B introduced Allison T56-A-7 turboprops and the first of 134 entered Air Force service in April 1959. C-130B's are used in aerial fire fighting missions by Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve units. Six C-130B's were modified in 1961 for snatch recovery of classified U.S. Air Force satellites by the 6593rd Test Squadron at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.

General Characteristics
Primary function: Intratheater airlift
Contractor: Lockheed
Power plant: Four Allison T56-A-15 turboprops; 4,300 horsepower, each engine
Wing span: 132 feet, 7 inches (39.7 meters)
Length: 97 feet, 9 inches (29.3 meters)
Height: 38 feet, 3 inches (11.66 meters)
Speed: 374 mph (Mach 0.57)
Maximum takeoff weight:155,000 pounds (69,750 kilograms).
Ceiling: 33,000 feet (10,000 meters)
Range: 2,356 miles (2,049 nautical miles) with maximum payload; 5,200 miles (4,522 nautical miles) with no cargo.
Crew: Five
Armament: None
Unit Cost: $22.9 million
Date deployed: April 1955