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.
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.
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