Faced with the need to modernize its tactical transport capabilities, the Hellenic Air Force is evaluating the acquisition of three Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft. The request for information made to the United States includes the possibility that two of the units be converted into tanker aircraft, in order to reinforce the aerial refueling capacity of its combat aviation. This initiative is part of the 2025–2036 defense procurement plan, which seeks to strengthen the operational autonomy of the Hellenic Armed Forces.
The C-130J-30 is the most modern version of the Hercules, with an elongated fuselage that allows for carrying greater cargo and personnel compared to previous variants. Greece is aiming for a versatile aircraft, suitable for troop transport, aerial assault missions, and special operations, in addition to search and rescue (SAR) and medical evacuations (MEDEVAC).
Greece’s interest in the C-130J does not arise in isolation. During recent years, the current fleet of C-130B and C-130H has experienced severe operational limitations inherent to the aircraft’s years of service. Maintenance problems and the low availability of units in service became evident during the humanitarian crisis in Turkey, when one of the Greek Hercules suffered failures that prevented it from completing its aid flight. This context prompted the government of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to seek urgent alternatives to revitalize its transport fleet.
In the first instance, Athens initiated talks with Italy for the possible acquisition of second-hand C-130J Super Hercules belonging to the Aeronautica Militare. However, despite initial diplomatic efforts, negotiations did not prosper nor were transfer agreements finalized. This scenario led Greek authorities to consider other more viable options, including the direct purchase of new aircraft from the United States or the incorporation of the Brazilian Embraer C-390 Millennium model.
The KC-390 was formally presented to the Hellenic Air Force in June 2023, following the Paris Air Show. An Embraer demonstration team landed in Athens with the aircraft then registered as PT-ZNG, performing exhibitions at the Elefsina Air Base for the 356th Tactical Transport Squadron. During these sessions, the Brazilian company highlighted the model’s capabilities, its higher cruise speed, lower operating cost, and the possibility of integrating local industry through Hellenic Aerospace Industry, given that this company could perform maintenance and logistical support tasks.
Although the final decision has not yet been made, Greece faces a strategic choice between two global reference aircraft: the proven and widely used C-130J Super Hercules, and the modern KC-390 Millennium, which has been adopted by countries such as Hungary, Portugal, and the Netherlands. In either case, the renewal of the transport fleet presents itself as an urgent priority to guarantee the operability and projection of the Hellenic Air Force in the medium and long term.
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