Originally Posted by
melmothtw
Why another new type entirely, with all that entails in terms of infrastructure, training, support, etc,? Why not new/additional C-130J-30s? There's not much difference between the KC-390 and the C-130J-30 in terms of payload.
I admit, it's mostly swings and roundabouts - we do already have a support system in place for Herc and it does a good job. The KC-390 is a so far, a fairly unproven design but with some promising facets. Being able to link in to civilian jet engine MRO network could be one of them. Surprisingly, a reduced/best in class cost of ownership is another according to this article:
https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-w...132732.article
The increased speed is another facet in favour of the KC-390. Potentially the interior is also a nicer place to be for long periods.
As a tactical airlifter the Hercules is a finely crafted beast, and sometime you really do rely on static thrust - which a turboprop is master of.
But the RAF always seems so very keen to move the C-130 on, and I'm never really sure why - is cost of ownership really high?