U.S. DC-130J Drone Carrier

Drone-control and launch versions of the C-130 Hercules formed part of American experimentation with unmanned aircraft and airborne support. The better-established DC-130 designation is associated with carrying and controlling target or reconnaissance drones. The title ‘DC-130J’ does not by itself establish a standard operational production variant equivalent to those earlier aircraft.

Carrying a drone and commanding it in flight require dedicated equipment and procedures.

Earlier Hercules drone carriers combined the transport’s endurance and load-carrying capacity with underwing launching arrangements and specialized control stations. They supported the development and employment of unmanned targets and reconnaissance systems during the Cold War. This was a distinct mission from the AC-130 gunship or ordinary cargo transport. The documented DC-130 mission grew from earlier Hercules variants adapted for airborne drone operations.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 1946, Global War 1985, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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