New C-130s for Philippine Air Force

The Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) has announced it has approved the purchase of three Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft for the Hukbong Himpapawid ng Pilipinas (PAF, Philippine Air Force).

Scramble Magazine first reported on a possible order in October 2021, when the Philippine House of Representatives approved a request for five Super Hercules transporters. Now, the Philippine House of Representatives gave permission for acquiring three new C-130J-30 transporters. This number has been scaled down, most probably due to the available budget. Delivery for the new transporters is planned for July 2026, October 2026 and January 2027.

Because of scaling down the number of aircraft, this acquisition must be seen as an add-on to the current fleet of one C-130H and two C-130Ts rather than a replacement of these aircraft. The 222nd Airlift Squadron at Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base will add the aircraft to its inventory.

The C-130J-30 is capable of carrying 128 combat troops or 92 paratroopers and the purchase is part of a military modernisation program. This particular element will put the Philippine forces in a better position when it comes to supporting humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and military operations.

Credit photo (just illustrative): Ben Uffen (Scramble Archive)