Bangladesh Receives Final C-130J Aircraft
On June 25, Bangladesh Air Force received its fifth and final modernized C-130J aircraft, marking the completion of their upgrade program for enhanced operational capabilities.
Photo Source: 403rd Wing
On June 25, the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) received its fifth and final modernized C-130J aircraft, numbered 99-5481/S3-AGH. This marks the completion of an extensive upgrade program aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the BAF for UN missions and disaster relief work both domestically and globally.
These C-130Js, originally part of the Royal Air Force (RAF), were contracted by Bangladesh in July 2017. The aircraft underwent significant upgrades by Marshall of Cambridge starting in 2018 to meet the specific requirements of the BAF. The modernization included advanced avionics, enhanced cargo handling systems, and improved communication equipment, making them more versatile and capable of undertaking a variety of missions.
The first of the upgraded C-130Js was delivered to Bangladesh in August 2019, and since then, the fleet has been actively used in various capacities. The aircraft have proven invaluable in supporting UN peacekeeping operations, providing logistical support, and delivering humanitarian aid during natural disasters. Their robust design and adaptability have made them an essential asset for the BAF.
The final C-130J will soon join the other four aircraft at the 101 Special Flying Unit (SFU) ‘Excellence & Beyond’ at Tejgaon Air Base in Dhaka. This unit has been pivotal in the operational deployment of the C-130Js, ensuring that the aircraft are mission-ready and capable of responding to any requirement at a moment’s notice. The addition of the fifth aircraft will further strengthen the unit’s capacity to undertake complex and extended missions.
General Aziz Ahmed, Chief of Air Staff of the Bangladesh Air Force, expressed his satisfaction with the completion of the upgrade program. He emphasized that the modernized C-130Js would significantly enhance the BAF’s operational readiness and ability to contribute to international peacekeeping and disaster relief efforts. “These aircraft are a testament to our commitment to modernizing our fleet and enhancing our capabilities to meet both national and international obligations,” he said.
The successful integration of the C-130Js into the BAF fleet underscores the strategic importance of this modernization project. It highlights Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its air force with advanced technology and improve its capacity to support global peace and stability initiatives.
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