Mexico has become the first country in Latin America to field the C-130J Super Hercules, after the Fuerza Aérea Mexicana (FAM) confirmed the purchase of its first C-130J-30 tactical airlifter from Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT).
The deal is one of two international C-130J contract awards finalized in 2025, with the second overseas customer yet to be named. With this addition, Mexico joins 24 other nations operating the aircraft, contributing to a global fleet of more than 560 C-130Js currently in service.
A long-time Hercules operator, the FAM is modernizing its transport capabilities by replacing older models with the C-130J-30 Super Hercules. The move builds on more than 50 years of operational experience with the C-130 platform and preserves interoperability with partner air forces worldwide.
The C-130J-30 is the stretched variant of the aircraft, offering an additional 15 feet of cargo space. It delivers improved power, range and fuel efficiency, while increasing payload capacity—enhancements that support a wide range of tactical missions and capitalize on Mexico’s established expertise in C-130 operations, maintenance and logistics.
“This historic decision by Mexico reflects the continued trust placed in the C-130J Super Hercules by operators around the world,” said Trish Pagan, vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions. “With their new C-130J-30, the Fuerza Aérea Mexicana’s tactical airlift capability will deliver unmatched performance, exceptional reliability, and the versatility to perform all 20 missions the C-130J is certified to execute across Mexico, throughout Latin America, and worldwide.”
For more than five decades, the C-130 Hercules has played a central role in Mexico’s disaster response efforts, military operations and other critical missions. The latest acquisition underscores the country’s ongoing commitment to regional security and international cooperation.
Mexico’s selection comes as demand for versatile, multi-role airlift aircraft increases across Latin America, with the C-130J Super Hercules offering a combination of operational flexibility, global reach and proven reliability.
Shares of Lockheed Martin rose 1.8% in Wednesday trading.