U.S. Air Force Testing Drag-Reducing Feature on MC-130J

‘Finlets’ enhance the aircraft’s fuel efficiency and range.

Zach Vasile

Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11:30 AM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

An MC-130J taxis out for its first flight with new aerodynamic Finlets attached to the aircraft at Eglin Air Force Base. [Credit: /U.S. Air Force Michelle Gigante]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Air Force is testing 3D-printed "Finlets" on MC-130J transport aircraft to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve fuel efficiency.
These small, airflow-directing fins are estimated to reduce drag by 6-8%, which is expected to extend the aircraft's range and reduce operational costs.
The initiative aims to modernize the fleet and enhance combat capability, with plans to expand Finlet use across the entire C-130J fleet and potentially other aircraft like the KC-135 and C-17.

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The U.S. Air Force is testing drag-reducing devices called “Finlets” on MC-130Js with the goal of improving the transport aircraft’s fuel efficiency and range.

Officials at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida said the 3-D-printed Finlets, developed by Seattle-based Vortex Control Technologies, have been mounted on the aircraft’s rear door and on both sides of the tail fin and are being evaluated for their flight and air handling capabilities.