Singapore Airshow 2026: RSAF refreshes air transport capability as part of force modernisation
The four ex-Spanish C-130Hs will replace a similar number of RSAF C-130Bs that are around 60 years old. (Photo: author)
Singapore is understood to have received three of four ex-Spanish C-130Hs from Blue Aerospace in recent weeks.
Singapore will rejuvenate its Lockheed C-130 Hercules tactical airlift fleet through the acquisition of pre-owned C-130H aircraft, enabling the retirement of its sub-fleet of elderly C-130B airframes.
In response to written questions from the media on the sidelines of the Singapore Airshow 2026 this week, Chief of Air Force Maj Gen Kelvin Fan stated: “After thorough evaluations, we have determined that the C-130 remains the best platform to meet our operational needs for the next 15 to 20 years.”
He continued: “The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is therefore acquiring used, but still well-maintained, C-130H aircraft to replace our
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
SOF Week 2026: US Army to conduct trials with Mountain Horse’s containerised drone launcher
The Mountain Horse Containerised Autonomous Drone Delivery System has been engineered for dispersed, forward UAV operations. It can store, protect, charge, launch and recover drones.
-
British Army's Project Nyx progress reflects MoD investment in autonomous system
The UK MoD said it would narrow down the competitors from four to two later in the year, with those selected going on to develop the prototype drone that will operate as loyal wingman to the British Army’s Apache AH-64E helicopters.
-
UH-60M Black Hawk: export demand underpins $13 billion market opportunity
The UH-60M is the latest variant of the UH-60, a workhorse multirole helicopter that continues to attract further orders from across the globe. With further modernisation upgrades underway, the platform is expected to remain in operation until 2050.
