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The United States Air Force is evaluating a new drag-reduction technology on its C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, aiming to improve fuel efficiency and extend operational range. The innovation involves installing small aluminum fins, called "finlets," along the rear door and tailplane of the aircraft.
While the C-130J model already features updated engines and composite materials, the basic airframe design has changed little over decades of service. The new finlets are expected to increase fuel economy by 6-8% and can be fitted to any variant of the Hercules series, which has seen over 2,800 units produced in its 71-year history.
Aerodynamic improvements have been a consistent focus for the Air Force fleet. In previous years, the KC-135 Stratotanker was tested with winglets to save fuel, though funding for that project was not included in the most recent budget request despite earlier plans to invest $104 million. Meanwhile, microvanes fitted to the C-17 Globemaster III are nearing full deployment after testing showed a 1% reduction in drag and an estimated annual savings of $14 million according to Air & Space Forces Magazine.
