The Turkish Ministry of National Defense has confirmed that Türkiye will acquire 12 C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft from the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF).
The aircraft, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, will undergo maintenance and modernization in the UK before being gradually delivered to the Turkish Air Force. Reports about Türkiye’s interest in purchasing the RAF’s C-130J aircraft first emerged in 2024.
As Türkiye continues efforts to expand its fighter jet fleet, the country is also seeking to enhance its military airlift capacity. The procurement aims to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Turkish Air Force in transport and logistics missions.
Ministry's spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk announced the deal during a weekly press briefing, stating:
“Within the framework of efforts to meet the operational needs of our Air Force Command, 12 C-130J aircraft have been delivered to the relevant company for maintenance and modernization in the United Kingdom. Following completion of this process under the signed contract, the aircraft will be gradually included in the inventory of our Air Force.”
Aktürk also noted that after the completion of type training for maintenance and sustainment, the process would continue domestically using national resources and capabilities.