The Lockheed C-130 Hercules - Vol. III Middle East (expected January 2027)

Following our coverage of European and African air forces, this third volume focuses on those of the Middle East.
Regarding the C-130, the first observation is that all countries in the Near East have been equipped with Hercules aircraft, with the exception of two: Syria and Lebanon. More than 200 C-130 Hercules aircraft have been operated by Middle Eastern air forces since the first one was delivered to Iran in 1962.
Some countries are recent adopters: Iraq, Bahrain, and Qatar. Two countries stand out in particular: Iran and Saudi Arabia. They were not only the first two to receive C-130s – in 1962 and 1965, respectively – but they are also the largest operators. Israel is the third largest operator of the Hercules in the region, and it is fair to say that Hercules aircraft bearing the Star of David have frequently made headlines. Turkey is the fourth largest user, but its recent purchase of twelve refurbished C-130s will allow it to move into the top ranks.
In many countries, the trend is to keep older Hercules aircraft in service, aircraft that often have several decades of faithful service but are showing their age despite modernizations. Their replacement is obviously under consideration, but the options are limited. 
In this region, which has experienced much unrest, American Hercules aircraft have also been called upon frequently, as we describe in this book. The C-130's air transport and humanitarian missions have given way to special operations, which has led to an increased demand for KC-130J tankers in the region. 
The second constant is that the C-130 truly constitutes the ideal foundation upon which countries in the region can hope to launch industrial activity. 
The Hercules' career in the Middle East will be long and interesting...