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The airlifter that’s

better than new.

When Hercules first flew, it was a great advance in airlift. But Hercs rolling off Lockheed production lines today are far advanced over the first models.

Payload is up 23%. Engine power, up 20%. Range stretches out 52% farther. Cruise speed is 8% faster. And structural life has risen 100%.

And while Hercules keeps getting better and better, it's also looking better and better as fuel costs reach for the sky. Herc's turboprop engines use far less fuel than fanjet engines. 50% less in some cases.

Hercules was born with a classic airlift shape, so simple and functional that it has become almost timeless. And within that simple shape, Lockheed has improved Hercules from nose to tail. All basic systems have been improved. New ones have been added.

The result: An airlifter that's far better than when it first flew. An airlifter that will be serving in the 21st century. An airlifter that has been chosen by 43 nations.
An airlifter so versatile that it also serves as a maritime patrol plane, tanker and in many other roles.

The Twin Hercules. Lockheed is proposing to build the L-400, a twin-engine version of Hercules. The low-cost way to replace smaller, aging airlifters, the L-400 will carry loads such as 22,500 pounds for 550 nautical miles – or 15,000 pounds for 1,400 nautical miles.  Hercules keeps getting better and better.

Lockheed Hercules

Lockheed – Georgia Company