Length: 12"
Code: NC10220

The USCG operates 27 HC-130H aircraft from five bases around the United States: CGAS Sacramento (former McClellan AFB), CGAS Clearwater, CGAS Elizabeth City, CGAS Kodiak and CGAS Barbers Point . The aircraft are used for search and rescue, enforcement of laws and treaties, illegal drug interdiction, marine environmental protection, military readiness, International Ice Patrol missions, as well as cargo and personnel transport. The service also currently operates an additional 6 HC-130J aircraft from CGAS Elizabeth City. USCG HC-130s are not equipped for aerial refueling of helicopters.

First flown in 1964, the HC-130 aircraft has served many roles and missions. It was initially modified to conduct search and rescue missions, provide a command and control platform, and in the case of USAF versions, in-flight refuel helicopters and carry supplemental fuel for extending range or air refueling. Some USAF aircraft were also modified to employ the Fulton surface-to-air recovery system, although this system has since been discontinued and the specialized equipment removed.

The USAF HC-130 can fly in the day against a reduced threat; however, crews normally fly night, low-level, air refueling and airdrop operations using night vision goggles (NVG). The aircraft can routinely fly low-level NVG tactical flight profiles to avoid detection, and to enhance the probability of mission success and survivability near populated areas, crews employ tactics that include incorporating no external lighting or communications, and avoiding radar and weapons detection.

Secondary mission capabilities include performing tactical airdrops of pararescue specialist teams, small bundles, zodiac watercraft, or four-wheel drive all-terrain vehicles; and providing direct assistance to a survivor in advance of the arrival of a recovery vehicle. Other capabilities are extended visual and electronic searches over land or water, tactical airborne radar approaches and unimproved airfield operations. A team of three Pararescuemen (PJ's), trained in emergency trauma medicine, harsh environment survival and assisted evasion techniques, is part of the basic mission crew complement.

Combat Air Forces HC-130 aircraft are undergoing extensive modifications. These modifications include night vision-compatible interior and exterior lighting, a personnel locator system compatible with aircrew survival radios, improved digital low-power color radar and forward-looking infrared systems.

Coast Guard HC-130s were primarily acquired for long-range overwater search missions, support airlift, maritime patrol, North Atlantic ice patrol and command and control of search and rescue, replacing previously operated HU-16 Albatross and HC-123 Provider aircraft. Like their USAF counterparts, USCG HC-130s also have the capability of air dropping rescue equipment to survivors at sea or over open terrain.