C-130Js are engaged in high-tempo operations in multiple combat theaters and are routinely deployed in support of both peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The C-130J is a proven airlifter that has been selected by eleven nations, with 181 aircraft delivered through the third quarter of this year. The C-130J is a flexible, multimission aircraft that has been delivered in multiple and varied configurations to meet a wide range of operational needs.
On November 9, 2009, Major General Michael Snodgrass, chief of staff, U.S. Africa Command, Stuttgart, Germany, accepted the seventh of 14 Lockheed Martin C-130Js to be based at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The USAF Europe C-130Js based at Ramstein also support the airlift needs of Africa Command.
The delivery of this most recent Ramstein C-130J marks the half-way point for the base's total C-130J deliveries. Ten C-130Js will be delivered to Ramstein this year, with four more scheduled for delivery in 2010. These fourteen new Js will support the Ramstein-based 37th Airlift Squadron that has been flying C-130Es. The new aircraft are the longer C-130J-30 configuration, which is now the standard for recapitalizing the United States Air Force and many other air forces around the world.