The Royal Australian Air Force has completed the Block 8.1.1 upgrade across its C-130J-30 Super Hercules fleet, marking the latest increment in the aircraft’s ongoing capability development and sustainment program.
The upgrade applies to the RAAF’s fleet of 12 C-130J-30 aircraft, which support a range of tasks including tactical airlift, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and regional operations. The update ensures the fleet remains compliant with evolving airspace, navigation and interoperability requirements.
Block 8.1.1 introduces a combination of software and hardware changes, including updates to communications systems, navigation functions, civil data links and GPS capability. These changes are intended to improve integration with civil and military air traffic systems and maintain operational compatibility with other C-130J operators.
Most of the upgrade work was carried out in Australia, with 11 of the 12 aircraft modified locally as part of the program. The work formed part of Australia’s established C-130J sustainment arrangements, involving domestic industry partners under the existing support framework.
Australia participates in the C-130J Super Hercules Joint User Group, which coordinates the platform’s Block Upgrade Program across the international user community. The group oversees incremental updates to software and systems to maintain common standards and interoperability among operators.
The Block 8.1 software standard is in service with multiple C-130J operators, including the United States Air Force, US Marine Corps, US Coast Guard, and air forces in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.
The completion of the upgrade coincides with Australia’s broader C-130J fleet transition. In 2023, the Australian Government committed to acquiring 20 additional C-130J aircraft to replace and expand the existing fleet, with initial deliveries expected from late 2027.
The C-130J remains in widespread service internationally, with more than 560 aircraft delivered worldwide and the global fleet accumulating more than three million flight hours.
Image: C-130J Super Hercules. Credit – Lockheed Martin
