Marines Receive First KC-130J for VMGR-452 in New York
Lockheed Martin recently delivered the first KC-130J Super Hercules tanker assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 (VMGR-452), the Marine Forces Reserve squadron at Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York.
A U.S. Marine Corps crew ferried the aircraft from Lockheed Martin’s facility in Marietta, Georgia, on May 28 to the aircraft’s new home.
VMGR-452 is the second Marine Reserve squadron to operate KC-130Js and this delivery signifies the recapitalization of the squadron’s existing KC-130T fleet. VMGR-452 — known as the Yankees — has operated Hercules tankers for more than 30 years, flying KC-130s in support of Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
KC-130s are operated in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) commander by providing tactical in-flight refueling for fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft; aviation delivered ground refueling of aircraft or tactical vehicles; assault air transport or air-landed or aerial-delivered (parachute) personnel and equipment; pathfinder support, battlefield illumination; tactical aeromedical evacuation; and tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel support.
The proven and battle-tested KC-130J builds on the Hercules’ proven tanker refueling system while taking full advantage of the tremendous technological and performance enhancements found only in a Super Hercules.
The U.S. Marine Corps not only has the distinction of operating the largest KC-130J Super Hercules fleet in the world, but the Marine Corps is also the KC-130’s longest serving operator.
“The KC-130 Hercules tanker has been a pivotal part of Marine Corps aviation operations since 1960,’” said Rod McLean, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business and Marietta site general manager. “Our C-130 team knows this delivery is significant and represents increased capability for VMGR-452. We are proud to support our Marine aviation partners as they continue to be ‘first to fight.’”