The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) was due to take delivery of its first Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 transport on 7 September, 27 months after the original contract delivery date. The RAAF says a further five aircraft are expected before the end of this year, while the final six will arrive by mid-2000. The RAAF had hoped to have the full fleet operational by the end of 1998, replacing ageing C-130Es. The C-130Es will be retained until at least the end of next year. The C-130J squadron is expected to become fully operational by early 2001.
Source: Flight International
