Hercules numbers put into perspective
Date: 12 December 2004
"The SAAF acquired 7 C130B aircraft in 1963. In the late 1990s the USA donated 2 USAF C130B and 3 USN C130F EDA (ex desert) aircraft to the RSA (SAAF). At the time it was also decided to upgrade the fleet. However, because of major airframe corrosion on the C130F aircraft it was decided not to upgrade them. Thus, 9 aircraft form the tactical medium airlift capability of the SAAF.
The upgrade project is still ongoing. Four aircraft are at Denel Aviation for upgrade. Two are in for deep level and intermediate servicings at 28 Squadron and three aircraft are available for operational use at 28 Squadron.
The money was spent to upgrade the fleet. Once the project is complete all nine aircraft will be back in inventory. It is world wide accepted military practice that 50-70% of a fleet are available on the flight line whilst the remainder are in for servicings.
Oh and for the records, one C130F 411 was used in SAAF colours to relieve the pressure at the hight of the upgrade programme."
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