Ex Talisman Saber 2017 - US Navy Lockheed KC-130T Hercules 163591 and Boeing C-40A Clipper (B737-7AFC) 166693 Both Call into Rockhampton Airport

A couple of nice United States Navy (USN) aircraft were spotted arriving and departing at Rockhampton Airport on Friday 21 July in association with joint Military Exercise Talisman Saber 2017 (TS17).

Initially touching down from the South was Lockheed KC-130T Hercules (L-382) 163591.

The Hercules - serial 163591 - coded RU-591 - is of the Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 55 (VR-55) 'Minutemen'.  After a short time on the ground, it departed to Guam.  163591 was heard to be using the radio callsign of "Convoy 7361".

The other nice US Navy aircraft to arrive into Rockhampton Airport later on Friday 21 July was Boeing C-40A Clipper (B737-7AFC) 166693 / 693.  It was the second visit of this aircraft into Rocky during Talisman Saber 2017, however on this occasion, its exact movements are not fully known.

166693 / 693 is flown by the US Navy's Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 57 (VR-57) "Conquistadors" based at NAS North Island, San Diego, California.

After some time on the ground, it departed for parts unknown.  166693 was heard to be using the radio callsign of "Convoy 7579".

Sincere thanks to local plane spotters 'IAD', Kayanne H and Daniel B for taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

Photos taken by 'IAD', Kayanne Hardsman and Daniel Bishop  ©