Italy approves C-130J Hercules support contract
Italy replaced its C-130H inventory with C-130Js from 2000, pictured above in Afghanistan. (Photo: Italian Ministry of Defence)
The contract between the Italian Air Force, Avio Aero, Leonardo and Lockheed Martin for C-130J support has been approved.
The €380 million contract for the technical-logistical support of the Italian Air Force’s C-130J Super Hercules has been approved by the Aeronautical Armaments and Airworthiness Directorate.
The contract lasts for five years and is signed between the air force and the temporary business grouping formed by Avio Aero, Leonardo and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.
As part of the contract, the business grouping will implement a technical-logistical model that provides integrated logistical support and both in house and on-site engineering support.
Aircraft maintenance activities are also envisaged as were repairs, spare parts, material logistics, inspection activities software and technical publications maintenance and updates.
According to Pierfederico Scarpa, VP of strategy marketing and sales at Avio Aero, commented that the company will provide a performance-based logistics service to support the AE 2100D3 engines.
Lockheed Martin brings its OEM insights to ensure the platforms are more effective and can respond to the needs of the Italian Air Force.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, 20 C-130J aircraft are in use with the Italian Air Force.
More from Air Warfare
-
![India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures]()
India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures
Delays, dwindling squadrons and global competition spur belated momentum in airpower procurement.
-
![Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI join forces to co-develop UAVs]()
Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI join forces to co-develop UAVs
The $510 million partnership will see Hanwha invest to co-develop and manufacture the Gray Eagle STOL, with a maiden flight test expected by 2027.
-
![Colombia confirms Gripen E/F buy, final negotiations still underway]()
Colombia confirms Gripen E/F buy, final negotiations still underway
The country was reportedly “months” away from an official aircraft selection, as of mid-March 2025.
-
![Portugal joins Embraer and Brazil on C-390 ISR capabilities study]()
Portugal joins Embraer and Brazil on C-390 ISR capabilities study
The ongoing study was first announced by Embraer in late 2024 with the Brazilian Air Force, with this latest addition announced during the LAAD defence and security exhibition.
-
![Philippines approved for potential $5.5 billion F-16 aircraft purchase]()
Philippines approved for potential $5.5 billion F-16 aircraft purchase
The potential sale, approved by the US to the Philippines, is for 20 F-16 Block 70/72 jets, days after US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth visited the country.
-
![Sweden commits to acquire four C-390 Millennium aircraft]()
Sweden commits to acquire four C-390 Millennium aircraft
The acquisition of four C-390 aircraft follows the country’s signing of an MoU in 2023 and formal selection in 2024. It will join the existing contract held by the Netherlands and Austria.
