Navy Reserve’s Upgraded KC-130T Hercules Cleared to Refuel More Aircraft

Move comes after testing of fleet upgrade to eight-blade composite propeller system.

Kimberly Johnson

Monday, February 24, 2025 at 01:17 PM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

A KC-130T equipped with NP2000 in a air-to-air refueling test flight. [Courtesy: U.S. Navy]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. Navy Reserve KC-130T Hercules tankers, equipped with the new eight-blade composite NP2000 propeller system, have been cleared to refuel a wider range of aircraft across the carrier air wing.
This clearance, following successful testing in early 2025, includes key platforms like the F-35B/C, F/A-18, EA-18, and various helicopters, significantly increasing naval aviation's operational reach and flexibility.
The NP2000 propeller system upgrade offers substantial benefits, including a 50% decrease in maintenance costs, reduced airframe vibration and noise, and up to 20% more thrust for shorter takeoffs.
The expanded refueling capability is critical for enhancing flexibility and collaboration among all military forces in future conflicts.

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U.S. Navy Reserve KC-130T Hercules tankers upgraded with a new eight-blade composite propeller system have been cleared to refuel a wider range of aircraft across the carrier air wing, Naval Air System Command said Monday.

The move follows testing at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) in early 2025 that cleared KC-130T for air-to-air refueling of F-35B/C Lightning II, F/A-18 Hornet, EA-18 Growler, CH-53K King Stallion, CH-47 Chinook, H-60s helicopters, and AV-8B Harriers with the NP2000 propeller system, the command said.