Israel receives first C-130J Super Hercules 'Shimshon'Lockheed Martin delivered to Israel its first C-130J Super Hercules airlifter during a ceremony recently at its aeronautics company’s production facility here. This is first of three C-130Js currently on order for the Israeli Air Force (IAF), which has operated legacy C-130s since 1971.

The IAF has bestowed the nickname “Shimshon” on its C-130Js. Shimshon is Hebrew for Samson, who was a judge and leader for the people of Israel. Samson’s mother called him Shimshon, which is derived from the Hebrew word for sun, because she felt he was destined to be as bright and mighty as the sun and would deliver the Jewish people from their enemies.

“Israel’s new C-130J builds on the tradition of its predecessors and offers the IAF unique capabilities that are not only proven, but without equal,” said George Shultz, Vice President and General Manager, C-130 programmes at the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company. “With its glass cockpit and modern digital avionics, the C-130J has proven it performs in all environments: hot, cold, dirt and sand. Shimshon will serve the IAF as the C-130 always has — anywhere, anytime.”

Israel ordered its C-130Js through a foreign military sale (FMS) contract with the US Government. Upon delivery, this aircraft will move into a modification programme and receive Israeli-unique systems. An incountry delivery for this C-130J is scheduled for spring 2014.