STAFF at RAF Lyneham bid a sad farewell to the three of the old Hercules models on Sunday November 12.
They are making way for brand new aircraft technology.
Three of the old C-130K model Hercules flew out of RAF Lyneham for the last time as the first of 25 to be returned to manufacturer Lockheed Martin in America, which is supplying the new C-130Js. Of the 25 new models ordered, 15 are already at Lyneham.
A spokesman for the air base, Squadron Leader Christopher Bartle, said the three Hercules, which have clocked up nearly 70,000 flying hours between them, have given good service since their delivery in 1967.
"Aircrew and groundcrew at Lyneham are sad to see their old faithfuls leaving after so many years good service," he said.
"Each of the aircraft was involved in many conflicts, including the Falklands crisis, the Gulf War, Bosnia and Kosovo.
"Some of them helped deliver thousands of tons of food and relief supplies to many parts of the world in times of famine, conflict or natural disaster."
The K models are to be flown away in batches of three, with nine aircraft going before Christmas and the final lot crossing the Atlantic in March.
Squadron Leader Bartle said: "The station is now looking forward to using its brand new J models alongside the remaining 25 refurbished Ks."
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