Transport

Military transport aircraft play a crucial role in logistics and operations, allowing for the efficient movement of troops, equipment, and supplies. Notable examples include the Lockheed Martin C-5 Galaxy, a heavy-lift aircraft renowned for its large cargo capacity and unique nose design that can be raised for easier loading. The C-130 Hercules, a versatile tactical airlifter, is ideal for various missions from humanitarian aid to combat support, boasting capabilities for short take-off and landing. Additionally, the Airbus A400M Atlas represents a modern solution for military transport, combining airlift capability with advanced technology and strategic versatility, designed to operate in diverse environments with heavy loads. Together, these aircraft form a backbone for military logistics, ensuring rapid and effective deployment wherever needed.

A400M Atlas

The A400M Atlas is a versatile military transport aircraft by Airbus, designed for modern air mobility. It combines strategic and tactical airlift capabilities with a payload capacity of up to 37 tonnes, transporting everything from armoured vehicles to humanitarian supplies. Its four turboprop engines provide exceptional short take-off and landing (STOL) capabilities for shorter airstrips. In-flight refueling extends its range, while advanced avionics and a fly-by-wire system enhance handling. The multi-role A400M is suitable for troop transport, strategic airlift, and logistical support, representing a significant advancement in military transport for rapid response in diverse environments.

Seen above departing from RAF Brize Norton is one of the based RAF A400Ms

Seen below departing Farnborough is a Turkish Air Force A400M that brought in aircraft for the air show back in 2022

Seen above arriving at RAF Fairford is a Belgian Air Force A400M coming in to take equipment back to Belgium after the air show

Seen below demonstrating what it can do is EC-400 owned and operated by Airbus Industrie Militaire

An-30

The An-30 is a twin-engine, high-wing aircraft designed for aerial photography and surveying. Introduced in the early 1970s, this aircraft has become a vital tool for both civil and military purposes, particularly in remote and challenging environments. Its robust design ensures stability and reliability, making it an ideal choice for capturing detailed aerial imagery. Equipped with a versatile payload capacity, the An-30 can carry various photographic and surveillance equipment, enabling it to perform a wide range of missions, from mapping and agricultural monitoring to environmental studies. The aircraft's enhanced visibility, paired with advanced navigational aids, allows for precise operations, contributing to its reputation as a dependable asset in aerial reconnaissance and data collection.

Seen above back at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2022 was a Romanian Air Force An-30 on the static line up

Boeing 707

The Boeing 707, a cornerstone of military aviation, first took to the skies in the late 1950s, originally conceived as a commercial airliner. Its adaptability led to various military applications, including aerial refuelling, transport, and reconnaissance. The military variants, notably the KC-135 Stratotanker, were vital during the Cold War, providing essential support to aerial operations. Known for its distinctive swept wings and powerful turbojet engines, the 707 remains a symbol of reliability and versatility in military operations, serving several air forces around the world for decades. Its legacy is marked by a commitment to innovation in military logistics and support, making it an enduring presence in the skies.

Seen below back in 2023 at RAF Mildenhall is 272 an Israeli 707 departing after a gas and go pit stop after flying back from the USA on route to Israel with munitions for the war that’s currently taking place out in that region

C-1

The Kawasaki C-1 is a twin-engined military transport aircraft developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries. Introduced in the 1970s, it was designed to meet the Japan Air Self-Defence Force's (JASDF) requirement for an effecient cargo and troop transport. With its distinctive high-mounted wings and T-tailed configuration, the C-1 boasts a maximum payload capacity of approximately 20,000 kg, enhancing its operational versatility. The aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca M250 turbofan engines, providing it with a range of 2,200 km. Although it was primarily utilised by the JASDF, the C-1's design and capabilities have made it a notable example of Japanese aerospace engineering during the Cold War era.

Seen coming in hot to Gifu Air Base is 28-1001 the Prototype Kawasaki C-1 during rehearsals of the flypast and demonstrations for the 2022 Gifu Air Base open house event during November

C-2 Greyhound

The C-2 Greyhound is a multipurpose cargo aircraft designed for the United States Navy. As a modernised variant of the original C-1 Trader, the Greyhound has enhanced capabilities for transporting high-priority cargo, personnel, and mail to aircraft carriers and forward operating bases. Featuring a robust airframe, the C-2 is equipped with a retractable cargo ramp, allowing for rapid loading and unloading of supplies in various environments. Its versatility and reliability make it an essential asset for naval operations, reflecting the Navy's commitment to maintaining logistical support in the ever-evolving theatre of maritime warfare.

Seen below at Iruma Air Base just outside of Tokyo is a pair of C-2 Greyhounds returning to their carrier with essential supplies for the ship

C-5 Galaxy

The C-5 Galaxy is a massive military transport aircraft, renowned for its impressive cargo capacity and capabilities. Introduced in the 1970s, this four-engine jet is designed to carry oversized cargo, including military vehicles, helicopters, and large pieces of equipment. With a wingspan of 222 feet and a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 770,000 pounds, the C-5 is one of the largest aircraft in the world. Its distinctive nose, which can be raised to allow for the loading of large cargo items, sets it apart from other transport aircraft. The Galaxy provides vital logistical support and is integral to the United States Air Force’s air mobility operations, enabling rapid deployment of troops and supplies around the globe.

Seen below at RAF Mildenhall are a couple of 436th Airlift Wing C-5 Galaxy aircraft based at Dover Air Force in Delaware

C-17 Globemaster

The C-17 Globemaster III is a robust military transport aircraft designed for rapid strategic airlift of troops and cargo to main operating bases or forward operating bases worldwide. Developed by McDonnell Douglas, the C-17 is renowned for its advanced avionics, versatility, and impressive cargo capacity, allowing it to carry oversized cargo, including military vehicles and humanitarian supplies. Its distinctive T-tailed design and four turbofan engines provide exceptional performance even in challenging conditions, including short and austere airfields. The C-17’s capabilities have established it as a crucial asset for air mobility operations, ensuring swift deployment and support for military and humanitarian missions globally.

Seen above on approach to London Stansted coming in empty from India is an Indian C-17 these came in to take gold back to India

Seen on arrival at Heathrow is ZZ177 a RAF C-17 coming in for the British Airways families day a couple of years ago

Seen departing the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford is a Charleston based US Air Force C-17

Seen below arriving at Kadena Air Base on the Japanese Island of Okinawa is a Hawaiian based United States Air Force C-17

Seen above on arrival at RAF Mildenhall is a United States Air Force Pittsburgh based C-17

Seen below arriving at RAF Mildenhall is this McChord based United States Air Force C-17

Seen above arriving at RAF Mildenhall at golden hour is a United States Air Force C-17

Seen below at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2019 is the Qatar Air Force C-17 in the Qatar Airways colour scheme

C-27 Spartan

The C-27 Spartan is a versatile military transport aircraft designed for tactical missions. Developed by Alenia Aeronautica, it features a twin-engine configuration and a high-wing design, facilitating operations from short and unpaved airstrips. With a maximum payload capacity of around 11,500 kg, the Spartan is engineered to carry troops, supplies, and equipment across diverse terrains and conditions. Its robust construction and advanced avionics ensure reliability and efficiency in various operational scenarios, making it an essential asset for air mobility forces. Whether for humanitarian assistance or combat support, the C-27 Spartan continues to serve armed forces worldwide with distinction.

Seen below showing off at the Royal International Air Tattoo is an Italian Air Force C-27 Spartan from the Reparto Sperimentale di Volo (Experimental Flight Regiment) based at Pratica di Mare Air Base just outside Rome, Italy

C-130

The C-130 Hercules is a robust military transport aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin. First introduced in the 1950s, it has since become a vital asset for air forces around the world. Renowned for its versatility, the C-130 is capable of performing a myriad of roles, including troop transport, medical evacuation, cargo airlift, and aerial refuelling. Its distinctive design features a high-wing configuration and four turboprop engines, enabling it to operate from short and unpaved airstrips. With a range of variants, the C-130 has been adapted for specialised missions, making it one of the most enduring and reliable aircraft in aviation history.

Seen after their practice Quick Reaction Alert Display at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2022 is this Austrian C-130

Seen below at Cambridge Airport is this Indian C-130 being upgraded by Marshall Group

Seen above is a JASDF C-13o heading out for departure at Misawa Air Base

Seen below is an Italian C-130 returning to Italy after the Royal International Air Tattoo in 2023

Seen back in 2023 is this CC-130 Hercules at RAF Fairford taxiing out for the long journey back to Canada

Seen below at RAF Brize Norton is a now retired RAF C-130, these are currently stored at Cambridge Airport

Seen on approach to Heathrow is 7T-VHL of Air Algerie Cargo back in 2020 there was several of these cargo flights

Seen departing Farnborough Airport is this example of the Polish Air Force C-130 Fleet in which they have 8 examples in service

Seen above on approach to Misawa Air Base is a United States Air Force C-130 based in Yokota Air Force Base just outside of Tokyo

Seen departing RAF Fairford after the 2023 Royal International Air Tattoo is this WC-130 from the United States Air Force

Seen below at RAF Mildenhall and Misawa Air Base back in 2022 are a couple of AC-130Js gunships these are heavily modified C-130s fitted with a 105 mm M102 howitzer gun along side a smaller 30 mm autocannon

Seen above on approach to RAF Mildenhall is one of 6 unmarked MC-130Js that went through the air base in one day in 2023

Seen at RAF Brize Norton a very long way from its home at RNZAF Base Auckland is this C-130 from the Royal New Zealand Air Force

C-235/295

The CASA C-235/295 is a versatile twin-engine tactical aircraft from Spain's CASA, used for military and civilian purposes since the 1980s. The C-235 features a high-wing design for transport, surveillance, and maritime patrol, known for short takeoff and landing capabilities in restricted environments. The modern C-295 variant has advanced avionics and upgraded engines for better performance. Both models are reliable, adaptable, and cost-effective, serving air forces and civilian organizations worldwide in humanitarian aid, cargo transport, and reconnaissance.

Seen below are a selection of CASA 235 and 295 aircraft seen at various locations in the UK during the last couple of years

C-390

The Embraer C-390 is a versatile modern transport aircraft from Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, designed for multi-mission roles like cargo transport, medical evacuation, and airborne refuelling. With a payload capacity of 26 tonnes, it can carry various cargos, including military and humanitarian supplies. Powered by two V2500 engines, it operates efficiently from short, unpaved runways and has a range exceeding 2,700 nautical miles for long-distance missions. Featuring advanced avionics and a fly-by-wire system, it enhances safety and crew efficiency. Its spacious cargo hold allows for rapid loading, making it ideal for logistics in various environments, crucial for military and humanitarian operations worldwide.

Seen landing after a demonstration flight at Farnborough International Air Show 2022 is this Brazilian Air Force C-390

Seen below on static display at the Royal International Air Tattoo 2022 is a Brazilian Air Force C-390