Minnesota's first modified C-130H arrived

On 11 May 2022, Minnesota Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Squadron, part of the 133rd Airlift Wing, received their first C-130 Hercules with an updated eight-bladed propeller. Earlier  Scramble Magazine wrote about USAF's C-130H legacy Hercules will fly for years to come.

While the first modified C-130H, with serial number 96-1003, arrived at Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport (MN), it is expected that another seven will join the unit in the upcoming period.

Last year the 109th AS/133rd AW launched a three-phase modernisation process by introducing the Electronic Propeller Control System (EPCS).

The Minnesota unit is currently in the second phase of the modernisation process, which includes transitioning the C-130Hs from four-bladed propellers to eight-bladed propellers. They will deliver more power and efficiency while reducing maintenance. Due to increased thrust for take-off and climb-out, they are also helpful in cold weather and arctic operations. 

The completion of this phase is projected to end in September 2023. The third phase will introduce a T56 3.5 turbo engine and will kick off in the fall of 2023.

The C-130H is a legendary cargo aircraft known for its tactical abilities; it can operate from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for airdropping troops, equipment, and aid into hostile areas and providing medical evacuations. In Minnesota the C-130 Hercules is often used to assist with natural disasters and state emergencies. Over the last 51 years, the 109th AS/133rd AW has flown three different models of the C-130 aircraft. The current model, the C-130H3, has been with the Minnesota ANG since 1996.