US clears Vietnam C-130 support deal, indicating potential acquisition

The USAF is preparing to retire its C-130H fleet, which could be made available to US security partners. RTX has unveiled a C-130H upgrade suite that includes the NP2000 eight-bladed propeller, as seen on this US Air National Guard Hercules. (Collins Aerospace)

The US State Department has approved a proposed USD100 million deal to supply Vietnam with Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules-related equipment and support, signalling that Hanoi may be preparing to procure the transport aircraft.

The potential sale, notified on 2 June, covers sustainment services and related equipment under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism. “The proposed sale will improve Vietnam's capability to meet current and future threats by ensuring the operational readiness of its C-130 aircraft fleet,” the State Department said.

The Vietnam People's Air Force (VPAF) is not a Hercules operator. According to Janes All the World's Air Forces, its transport fleet comprises three NC212i and one C-212 aircraft procured from PT Dirgantara Indonesia, and three Airbus C295 medium transport aircraft.

The State Department said the proposed package includes C-130 engine propellers, aircraft components, parts, and accessories; ground handling equipment; and spare parts and consumables. It also includes training, repair and logistics support, and documentation.

“The proposed sale will improve Vietnam's strategic airlift capability and disaster/contingency response by ensuring the operational readiness of its C-130 aircraft fleet,” the State Department said.

The State Department has not previously announced a sale of C-130 aircraft to Vietnam under the FMS programme.

In its initial notification, the State Department named RTX Corporation in Arlington, Virginia, as the principal contractor. This was amended on 4 June to Lockheed Martin in Marietta, Georgia.

According to the State Department, it is unaware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with the potential sale.