SOCOM Plans to Replace Destroyed MC-130Js with Modified C-130Js
The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is considering replacing two Lockheed Martin MC-130J special operations transports that were destroyed in Iran with modified versions of the standard C-130J variant. This decision follows an incident during an April rescue mission. SOCOM's head of fixed-wing aircraft procurement, Justin Bronder, announced that the new Hercules transports, currently being produced by Lockheed in Marietta, Georgia, can be modified into MC-130J Commando IIs. The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) uses these aircraft for critical missions involving the infiltration and extraction of commando teams in hostile territories. The modernization plan, known as Combat Talon III or Capability Release 2, includes enhancements to the aircraft's infiltration, exfiltration, air drop, and aerial refueling capabilities. Additionally, upgrades will feature new Raytheon AN/APQ-187 Silent Knight terrain-following-and-avoidance radars and an electronic countermeasures system to improve surviv... 
