thnx for your kind words. I agree with you the C130 has a place of its own. I think it is becoming clear to its operators that its cargo deck and load carrying capasity is reaching its limits. Airforces want to move heavier / bigger equipment than the C130J can handle.
Its 20t capasity doesn't have much competition, the A400 is significant larger, the C27 significant smaller. The Brazilians smell an opportunity and seem to step in with the C-390 that has already attracted interest.
For passenger use I think a good militairy cargo aircraft will have a hard time becoming a good passenger aircraft. A big cross section / large cargo deck & heavy landing gear seems to contradict low drag / frontal surface. Then there is big door in the back. Structural weight & aerodynamics are probably not optimal for passenger service.
News today is that GE foresees its new heavy 8000 hp turboshaft under development for the CH53K to potentially play a role on fixed wing aircraft..
GE plots GE38 engine's future in emerging heavylift market