Qatar Buys 3 C-130Js

Qatar Buys 3 C-130Js (NSI News Source Info) OMAHA, Neb. - October 9, 2008: Lockheed Martin and Qatar have inked a $393 million contract for four C-130J Super Hercules transport planes, the company announced Oct. 7. Deliveries of Qatar's first C-130 cargo lifters are expected to begin in 2011; the deal includes training for air crews and maintainers, ground support, test equipment, forklifts, cargo pallets, spare parts and a temporary tech team to help the Qataris get up to speed on the "stretch" C-130 variant.

C-130J Super Hercules transport plane

"This acquisition of a fleet of C-130Js will provide our country with a highly flexible airlift capability," said Brig. Gen. Ahmad Ibrahim Al-Malki, chairman of the Qatar Emiri Air Force Airlift Evaluation Committee. "No other aircraft can do what a C-130J can do, and we are proud to join the many, many countries around the world that operate the world's most successful airlifter." Qatar is the latest addition to the long list of C-130J operators, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, India, Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States. "We also are extremely proud to be selected to provide the world's most advanced tactical mobility aircraft to meet Qatar's operational airlift needs," said Jim Jamerson, Lockheed's Middle East/Africa regional president. "The C-130J Super Hercules will equip the Qatari Emiri Air Force with proven, modern, and effective tactical and strategic airlift to support a wide range of Qatar's national requirements."