<article><hdr>Aerial shot of a C-130E Hercules</hdr><body>
<hi style=afpcap>The Air Force placed the first order for the purchase the initial C-130A version of the Hercules even before the prototype had performed its maiden flight, as they were convinced the Lockheed design matched their requirements exactly. Subsequently just four basic versions were produced with dozens of sub variants designed to perform specific duties, some far removed from that of airlift. The third of the four basics models was the C-130E which was initially produced to enable MATS to modernise its airlift capability pending delivery of the full quantity of C-141 Starlifters. MATS, and later MAC relinquished the inter theatre airlift role to Tactical Air Command, with their C-130s being reassigned to the latter organisation. Despite being approximately 30 years old, the C-130E still serves in substantial numbers with frontline and reservist units of the USAF.</hi>
