The Blue Angels Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron (NFDS) of the US Navy has received a C-130J Hercules aircraft to bolster its logistical capabilities.
The aircraft was purchased by the US Navy from the UK Ministry of Defence (UK MoD) in June last year.
Following the purchase, the Marshall Aerospace and Defence group carried out in-depth maintenance on the aircraft. The C-130J was also repainted to exhibit the iconic Blue Angel’s livery.
US Marine Corps program executive officer for Air Anti-Submarine Warfare, Assault & Special Mission Programs Major General Greg Masiello said: “Coordination and work to deliver this Blue Angels C-130J highlight a unique program office partnership with the UK MoD and Marshall Aerospace.
“The team has worked through challenges to deliver this high-visibility asset to our fleet, and provide a ‘new’ aircraft to support our Naval Flight Demonstration Squadron for years to come.
“We have all been able to witness the transformation of this particular C-130 Hercules transition into a valuable addition to our Blue Angels flying demonstration team.”
Blue Angels is expected to use the C-130J Hercules aircraft to transport tools, spare parts and engineers. It will also be used for aerial displays.
Royal Air Force Chief of Materiel (Air) Air Marshal Sir Julian Young said: “This C-130J aircraft served the Royal Air Force well over the years, and I am delighted that following a ‘refurb’ it will now go on to serve another military force.”
