USCG transfers third HC-130J to Kodiak

The US Coast Guard transferred an HC-130J Super Hercules long range surveillance aircraft to Air Station Kodiak, Alaska at the end of March 2019.

The aircraft, CGNR-2010, is the third of five HC-130Js that will be stationed at Kodiak.

The HC-130J features more advanced engines and propellers, providing a 20% increase in speed and altitude and a 40% increase in range over the HC-130H model aircraft. The HC-130J is equipped with an updated liquid oxygen system that will allow the crew to fly at higher altitudes; and its Minotaur mission system suite will provide increased capabilities for sensors, radar and intelligence-gathering equipment.

These improvements will give the coast guard better response times, extending time on scene for searches, law enforcement patrols, and increasing effectiveness and versatility in Alaska’s challenging weather and terrain.

Two additional HC-130Js are scheduled to arrive at Kodiak in 2019. The five HC-130Js will complement Kodiak’s current fleet of six MH-60s and four MH-65s. As HC-130J deployments continue, the remaining three HC-130Hs will be removed. Those outgoing aircraft will support HC-130H long range surveillance operations at other air stations or be disposed of once all usable parts are salvaged to support the remaining HC-130H and HC-130J fleet.

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