This week’s Quwa Premium article is a recap of some defence news items from around the world. Besides a basic overview of the news, this article also offers short-form analysis of each issue.
Pakistan to Receive 7 Ex-Belgian C-130Hs
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will start receiving the first of seven former Belgische Luchtmacht/Belgian Air Force C-130H Hercules transport aircraft. The first aircraft (CH-12/4483), now refurbished and overhauled, recently flew at Melsbroek Air Base in Belgium. The PAF will be taking delivery of it shortly.
Two third-party contractors – SABENA Aerospace and Blue Aerospace – are facilitating the sale to Pakistan by taking on the refurbishing and overhauling work.
The Belgian Air Force had operated a total of 12 C-130s since 1972. Since 2020, Belgium has been phasing its C-130Hs out with the Airbus A400M (of which, it has seven aircraft on order).
The 7 ex-Belgian C-130Hs will join the PAF’s existing fleet of 14 C-130B/Es. In turn, observers expect the PAF to raise a third C-130 squadron. In addition to the aircraft, the PAF is also acquiring spare parts and engines, propellers, and ground support equipment (GSE) from Belgium.
Comments:
Assuming the PAF will continue operating its existing C-130B/Es alongside the C-130Hs, the PAF’s Hercules fleet will grow to 21 aircraft and, potentially, result in a third squadron.
This is an increase of 50% to the fleet, and a significant capability boost for the PAF as it gives it a relatively large medium-weight transport fleet. In fact, few air forces in the world operate more than 12-16 C-130s.
Granted, the PAF’s C-130B/E/H types are smaller than the current variant, C-130J-30, but the older aircraft are still durable, reliable, and capable.
In relation to this deal, there are three key points worth following:
First, one should not underestimate the value proposition of used American equipment, especially when the end-user can readily absorb it.
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