TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Air Force confirmed it plans to upgrade its fleet of 20 C-130 Hercules transport planes from 2025 to 2030, to enhance their flight safety and operational support capability.

The aircraft will receive new integrated cockpit interfaces, improved maritime search and rescue capabilities, enhanced global positioning systems, stand guidance systems, and collision avoidance systems, CNA reported. The cost of the upgrades is expected to exceed NT$10 billion (US$ 307.88 million).

The Air Force purchased the C-130s from the U.S. and had one modified into an electronic warfare variant, dubbed the "Pharaoh." 

The aircraft are each powered by four T-56-A-15 turboprop engines, which allow them to take off and land on short runways. During the annual Han Kuang military exercises, the C-130 plays a critical role in force preservation by transporting aircraft parts to eastern Taiwan, where it is more difficult for enemy strikes to destroy military facilities and hardware.