Press Releases

In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis, Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) is leading the effort to renew critical investments in the C130J “Super Hercules” program. Manufactured in Marietta, Georgia, the C-130 is the longest continuously running military production line in history.

“Strengthening our investment in the C-130J production line has critical implications for Georgia’s 11th district," said Rep. Loudermilk. "This program contributes needed support and resources to our military and provides 32,000 jobs for individuals across 41 states. I am committed to reinforcing investments into this program in the interest of our military and the 11th congressional district.”

The letter, which calls on Secretary Mattis to pursue a Multi-Year Procurement (MYP-III) program as part of President Trump’s FY19 budget proposal, received bipartisan support and is co-signed by 12 members of the Georgia delegation.

Background:

The current C-130J MYP-II (FY14-18) has resulted in Department of Defense savings greater than 10 percent per aircraft and greater than $600 million over 80+ C-130J aircraft. Yet, last year’s sequestration-constrained budget plans for FY19-23 project drastic cuts in annual C-130J purchases, threatening the future of the only remaining active US airlifter production line.

The C-130J is the most capable tactical airlifter in the world. C-130J production is currently at a healthy rate of 24 aircraft per year (including 16 Department of Defense aircraft per year.) However, last year’s forecasts suggest future DOD procurement for FY19+ would drop to approximately 7-8 aircraft per year.

Full text of the letter can be found HERE.