Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas has been chosen by the Department of the Air Force as the host for the Air National Guard C-130J Formal Training Unit on June 24.
To build the FTU, four C-130J Hercules will take the place of outdated C-130Hs, ensuring that aircrews acquire the expertise and knowledge necessary to fly the more modern aircraft.
In comparison to preceding C-130 models, the C-130-J requires less labor, has reduced operating and support expenses, and offers life-cycle cost reductions.
Additionally, it can land and take off more quickly, ascend higher and quicker, and fly at a faster cruise speed.
The Little Rock ANGB was chosen to host this mission following a site survey that evaluated the area based on mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, environmental considerations, and cost.
The environmental analysis is also finished, allowing the Air Force to make the ultimate decision to base the FTU at Little Rock AFB.