ANG 139th Receives Upgraded C-130H3

Missouri’s 139th Airlift Wing has taken delivery of its first C-130H3 Hercules.

The 139th Airlift Wing of the Air National Guard (ANG) in Missouri has received a C-130H3 Hercules as part of a wider divestment and upgrade cycle that retires older airframes and reallocates refreshed assets. The handover marks a step-change in capability for the unit, while the aircraft completes acceptance testing and required isochronal inspections (routine scheduled checks) before entering operational service.

What the C-130H3 brings

The H3 variant upgrades the classic Lockheed C-130 platform with several mission-relevant improvements: better fuel efficiency, extended range, and quieter eight-bladed propellers that reduce noise signature. The flight deck also benefits from enhanced cockpit features and an electronic valve-housing system that delivers faster power adjustments and improved engine response.

• C-130H3: quieter eight-blade props, longer range, improved fuel efficiency and updated cockpit/electronic controls.

Before the aircraft joins day-to-day operations, technicians will run acceptance checks and isochronal maintenance intervals to verify systems and address any installation-specific work. Those steps are standard for ANG transfers and ensure the airframe meets unit mission and safety standards.

For the 139th, the C-130H3 expands flexibility across airlift tasks — from routine logistics and cargo moves to training and contingency response. The combination of reduced fuel burn and improved engine control also supports longer sorties and lowers operating costs, which matters for day-to-day readiness and deployability.

Operators and maintainers will focus initial efforts on crew training, systems familiarization and the maintenance cycle required by the new variant. Once cleared, the H3 will slot into the 139th’s mission set and help the Missouri ANG sustain regional and national airlift needs with modernized capability.