Modernisation of Hercules C-130H Supports Strengthening of Defence Fleet
The modernisation of the Indonesian Air Force’s Hercules C-130H aircraft with tail number A-1319 has been completed. The programme covered structural renewal, avionics systems and improved aircraft integrity as part of efforts to strengthen the national defence fleet.
Aircraft A-1319 was officially handed over by PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia Tbk (GMF), represented by President Director Andi Fahrurrozi, to the Indonesian Ministry of Defence. The handover was witnessed by Defence Minister General TNI (Ret.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin at Hangar 4 GMF on Wednesday (19/8).
A-1319 is the second aircraft to undergo the C-130H modernisation programme by GMF. Previously, GMF completed the Centre Wing Box Replacement (CWBR) modernisation on aircraft A-1315, which was handed over to the Ministry of Defence and the Indonesian Air Force in 2023.
Unlike the previous project, the modernisation of A-1319 covered three main work packages: CWBR, the Avionic Upgrade Programme (AUP) and the Structural Integrity Programme (SIP). All three were aimed at maintaining structural integrity, updating avionics systems and supporting the aircraft’s operational readiness and reliability.
GMF President Director Andi Fahrurrozi said the completion of A-1319 was an important achievement in strengthening the company’s ability to handle state-owned primary weapon system aircraft.
“We not only ensure the aircraft meets airworthiness and operational readiness requirements, but also strengthen GMF’s engineering competence,” he said.
The main work included replacing the aircraft’s primary structure, the centre wing box. This component plays an important role in extending the aircraft’s operational life by around 15–20 years.
Meanwhile, through the AUP, the aircraft’s avionics systems were updated to digital systems in line with technological developments and operational needs. The SIP was carried out to ensure structural integrity is maintained so the aircraft is safe and airworthy, including when carrying out repeated heavy-load operations.
A-1319 also became the first prototype aircraft to undergo such modifications outside Lockheed Martin facilities. After the work was completed, the aircraft underwent flight testing involving Indonesian Air Force pilots and crew.
Before taking part in the flight tests, the crew had completed Initial Conversion Avionics Flight 2 System training in Tampa, Florida, United States.
Andi said GMF will continue to develop its capabilities and competence to support the maintenance needs of the national defence fleet.
“We will continue to develop capabilities to support the modernisation of a self-reliant, high-standard defence fleet,” he said.
The modernisation of A-1319 is part of the defence industry offset programme obtained by GMF as a fostered industry of the Ministry of Defence through the purchase of C-130J aircraft.
Under the programme, GMF received technology transfer from Lockheed Martin for CWBR and AUP work on the C-130H. The technology transfer also included a manufacturing-level certification process for the prototype aircraft.
During implementation, GMF coordinated with PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), Lockheed Martin, the Indonesian Air Force and the Ministry of Defence.
The entire modernisation process for A-1319 referred to the regulatory standards of the Indonesia Defence Airworthiness Authority (IDAA) of the Ministry of Defence’s Airworthiness Centre. The aircraft also went through a series of airworthiness certification processes before being declared ready to support Indonesian Air Force operations again.
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the C-130 modernisation is part of efforts to build defence strength in line with the development of the national defence and aerospace industries.
According to him, the completion of A-1319’s modernisation demonstrates improved capability in carrying out maintenance and modernisation of Indonesian Air Force transport aircraft independently.
“We can now stand on our own feet, both in terms of crewing and technical matters,” he stressed.
Sjafrie said this capability will not only be applied to the C-130, but also to other Indonesian Air Force transport aircraft.
“Indonesian Air Force transport aircraft will be maintained by the country itself with technical personnel who are sons and daughters of the nation,” he said.
He also appreciated the involvement of GMF, PTDI and all parties supporting the maintenance and modernisation programme for Indonesian Air Force aircraft.
The completion of A-1319 strengthens GMF’s track record in handling military aircraft maintenance and modernisation, particularly the C-130 Hercules. This capability also opens opportunities for GMF to develop into a Hercules Service Centre and handle more Hercules fleets in the future.
The completion of A-1319 was the result of collaboration between GMF, the Indonesian Air Force, the Ministry of Defence, Lockheed Martin, PTDI and all parties involved in the modernisation programme.