The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is one of the most iconic aircraft in the American military. There are over 40 variants of this mighty machine, and a C-130H variant resides at the Arkansas Air & Military Museum. Many members of the US Armed Forces refer to her as the "Herky Bird" or "Herk". 

Originally built by Lockheed Martin, the C-130 has been used for search and rescue, weather reconnaissance, aerial assault, scientific research, refueling, firefighting, maritime patrol, humanitarian missions, and more. Civilian versions known as the L-100 are used in over 60 countries worldwide. 

The C-130 entered United States service in 1956, and was soon adopted by numerous other nations. As of 2024, its 70th year in production, it is the longest continuously manufactured military plane.

The C-130H features Allison T56-A-15 turboprops, updated avionics, and a redesigned outer wing, among other improvements.