1977/02 - First tactical transport aircraft

Lockheed C-130 Hercules

Northrop F-5E Tiger II

1977

The RSAF acquired C-130 Hercules transport aircraft for aerial resupply and air-to-air refuelling, joining 122 Squadron in April 1980.

To meet the growing needs of the SAF, the RSAF acquired the Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. Besides performing aerial resupply of ground troops and equipment, the plane can also carry out air-to-air refuelling of fighter aircraft such as the F-5E Tiger IIs. The C-130s are reputed for being workhorses and were inaugurated into 122 Squadron at Seletar Air Base in April 1980.

RSAF C-130 transport aircraft in camouflage flying against a blue sky.

The RSAF sent three sets of pilots, navigators, technicians, engineers, and loadmasters to Australia for training in C-130 operations.

Visitors boarding an RSAF C-130 aircraft via its open rear cargo ramp.

Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Phua Bah Lee boarding a C-130 aircraft before a familiarisation flight in the 1970s.

Passengers seated inside an RSAF aircraft, fastening seatbelts before flight.

Mr Phua and community leaders on a C-130 familiarisation flight.

RSAF C-130 transport aircraft on runway, engines running with visible propeller blur.

The C-130 Aircraft of 122 Squadron were relocated to Paya Lebar Air Base in December 1981.

RSAF officer unveiling plaque inside squadron building with audience watching.

Second Minister for Defence Dr Lee Boon Yang unveiled a plaque during his visit to 122 Squadron in 1982 to commemorate its achievement of 6,000 accident-free hours.

Gold RSAF Aircrew Specialist (ACS) wing badge featuring Singapore coat of arms.

This badge is awarded to loadmasters for the C-130 who have completed specialised training to be Aircrew Specialists.