Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules NZ7012 'KIW352' Arrives into Rockhampton Airport

On Friday 13 June, Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) new Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules NZ7012 was spotted arriving into Rockhampton Airport from RNZAF Base Ohakea via RAAF Base Amberley.  It was heard to use the flight number and callsign of 'KIW352'.

The new C-130J Hercules is one of five aircraft that RNZAF have acquired since September last year and will replace their aging C-130H fleet which were retired in January this year.

The C-130J Hercules are based at RNZAF Base Auckland and operated by the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s No. 40 Squadron.

It is expected that NZ7012 'KIW352' will remain at Rockhampton Airport for at least the night.

It also seems to be perhaps the first arrival for the upcoming combined military Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 which will kick off in mid-July.

Sincere thanks to local plane spotter John L for taking the time to capture and send through these great photos!

Photos taken by John Lee  ©