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US Special Forces consider amphibious version of C-130 Hercules
MAC projet, the MC-130J amphibious
Image: USAF
Rafael Ramos
9/16/2021
The KC-130J Hercules, which has already flown in several versions, such as the AC-130, with cannons in the fuselage for ground attack, and the LC-130, with skis for snow landing, can be given a new version for water landing, the amphibious.
The idea of ""making it amphibious by adopting floats is not new, since the 1960s. The modification project would be on the Lockheed MC-130J Commando II, in-flight refueling version, and would serve to make it capable of operating in the water.
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) considers the project important for future operations as it has rivalry with China and Russia and the Pacific is one of the priority regions.
However, the biggest difficulty is with the float, which would have to be big, but, at the same time, not too heavy and not fragile. The project is already being researched by the USAF's Experimental Strategic Research and Development Laboratory and is called MC-130 Amphibious Capability (MAC). According to Colonel Ken Kuebler, it is a big challenge, with innovative partners, but the plane could be presented as early as 2025.
“The development of MAC is the culmination of several lines of work. This capability will allow the USAF to increase its access for infiltration, exfiltration and personnel recovery in future conflicts,” said Lt. Col. Josh Trantham, Head of the USAF Science, Systems, Technology and Innovation Division.
The MC-130J features improvements over its older version MC-130E, H and P. It offers greater performance with its more powerful engines, being a more modern, multi-function aircraft. The plane usually flies on night missions. Supposedly, after development, it will be able to operate in water as well.
C-130 Super Hercules
Balon Greyjoy, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
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