Pakistan Air Force Transport

[Najam Khan]

Well, that seems a good use of it, but think about it. Launching a huge plane like C130 just for patrolling and recon makes little sense. I mean, we should have drones for that purpose. Much cheaper to operate and purchase.

You are right, but that 'huge plane' has more spectrum in such operations as compare to the UAVs we operate. Also, what will UAV do in case of ground fire (consider an enemy with improved weapons)?

A command center up in the air; observing all ground forces while keeping itself away from ground fire works perfectly fine. Plus, these low-level recce C-130 guys go through complete training for such role especially in timed boxed operations.

 

[fatman17]

FLIR Herks operate at least from 10,000ft which is safe from any weapons the militants may possess - at night time they operate from lower altitudes.

 

[Najam Khan]

Some random pictures of Herky bird.

 

[Jango]

Today saw all three camos at Nur Khan base. The grey low visibility, the dark jungle camo scheme, and the light bright jungle camo scheme.

Wonder what compelled the engineers/designers to make the nose landing gear door like that. A singular piece pushing against the wind to open would create enormous drag and the hydraulic would have to put some serious effort. Two split pieces opening to the sides are the norm, like this:

 

[airomerix]

Any word on C-130H's which PAF had to purchase few years ago? Or are we still stuck with Es and Bs?

 

[nomi007]

we did receive any c-130h

 

[Najam Khan]

Any word on C-130H's which PAF had to purchase few years ago? Or are we still stuck with Es and Bs?

Yes , refurbished E/B's, hardly any plans/funds to procure -H versions.
I think PAF in next 5-7 years should procured 4-6 IL-78s or at least 8 C-130s. The current number is not enough, because now c-130s are used in low-level tactical attack role as well.

Where would PAF's mobilization plans go when 4-6 C-130 are either out of order or severely damaged in case of full scale war? 24 should be the minimum number of Herky birds.

 

[fatman17]

i think PAF is satisfied with 16 Herks (all being updated to H standard) and the 4 or 3 IL-78's. dont forget the CN-235's. thats a lot of transports.

 

[Hyperion]

Some additional protection from enemy fire (landing / take off -- war scenario). Look closely, all sides are shielded from outside.

Wonder what compelled the engineers/designers to make the nose landing gear door like that. A singular piece pushing against the wind to open would create enormous drag and the hydraulic would have to put some serious effort. Two split pieces opening to the sides are the norm, like this:

 

[airomerix]

C-130Js is what we need. Especially in close air support missions along the Afghan Border. Not so surprisingly our neighbour has it all.

 

[Dazzler]

just saw IL-78 MKP roaming low towards Arabian Sea? Wonder whats going on

 

[Jango]

just saw IL-78 MKP roaming low towards Arabian Sea? Wonder whats going on

Approximately how low?

 

[Marshmallow]

Proud of our AIR fORCE

 

[Dazzler]

Approximately how low?

1000-1500 feet, below the usual cloud line, i must say its one loud plane

 

[Jango]

1000-1500 feet, below the usual cloud line, i must say its one loud plane

Location might be helpful.

But what does a IL-78 do near the sea at 1500 AGL???

Interesting indeed.