Lockheed Martin delivered a C-130J Super Hercules to the Iraqi Air Force at formal ceremonies in Marietta, Georgia on 12 December 2012.

This is one of the initial 3 aircraft of a total of 6 C-130Js ordered by Iraq.

The other 2 of these initial 3 aircraft departed on 11 December for Iraq.  The remaining 3 C-130Js will be delivered in 2013.   

The Iraqi Air Force will use the airlifters for intra-theater support for its troops and to provide humanitarian relief operations in various locations.

“Fifteen countries have already selected the C-130J Super Hercules to meet their airlift requirements,” said George Shultz, Lockheed Martin's Vice President and General Manager for C-130 Programs.

“Be it recapitalization of existing fleets, or new operators seeking proven airlift performance and capability, the C-130J is always the logical, low risk, affordable, proven answer,” he added.

Acquisition of new transport aircraft will provide Iraq with the ability to operate seamlessly with U.S., NATO and coalition forces engaged in a wide range of operations and missions.