Earlier this week, a special visitor in the form of a Belgian Air Force C-130H ‘CH-01’ visited LMML for a night stop. This aircraft was high on the list for many aviation enthusiasts due to the fact that it has recently received a commemorative livery marking its golden anniversary in Belgian Air Force service.
The 20th Tactical Air Transport Squadron of the 15th Wing Air Transport in Melsbroek has been equipped with the Lockheed C-130H Hercules cargo aircraft since 1972. After almost 50 years of loyal service within the Belgian Air Force, these world-famous workhorses will retire at the end of this year. As a special thanks to the 20Sqn Tactical Airlift and the Mighty Hercules for its efforts and ‘Tenacity’ spirit, CH-01 was adorned with a unique paint scheme.
CH-01 was as its number suggests, the first C-130 to be delivered to the Belgian Air Force and remains one of the last few in service. In the near future, the 15th Airlift Wing will become an 8 aircraft operation, supporting and operating the 7 BAF A400Ms and an additional A400M in the colours of the Luxembourg Armed Forces.
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