The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is moving ahead with a partial refresh of its airlift fleet by purchasing pre-owned Lockheed Martin C-130H Hercules aircraft to replace its oldest C-130B models.
The decision serves as an interim solution, as Singapore continues to study longer-term transport aircraft requirements.
RSAF Chief Maj. Gen. Kelvin Fan, who revealed the strategy, said in an interview with Asia Defence Journal that assessments showed the Hercules remains “the best platform to meet our operational needs for the next 15 to 20 years.”
He noted that the systems selected for the initiative are “well-maintained” and that deliveries have already begun, with each adapted to local requirements.
While the Southeast Asian government has not disclosed the number or origin of the incoming aircraft, sources said that several refurbished ex-European C-130Hs, particularly from Spain, have recently arrived in Singapore.
C-130s Under RSAF
The C-130Bs being replaced have been commissioned since the 1970s, making them among the oldest aircraft in the RSAF’s inventory.
Those planes undertake missions alongside the military’s existing C-130Hs under Paya Lebar-based 122 Squadron, covering deployments such as military logistics, search and rescue missions, as well as humanitarian and disaster response.
The collective fleet has already received major upgrades led by local industry, including the installation of glass cockpits, improved avionics, and upgraded engines.
