Hi,
Does anyone out there know why the freight bay on RAF C130J's differs from every other operating nation?
For those not familiar with the type, the RAF J model has a freight bay which is more or less a copy of the H model design (
AFAIK). Where as all other operating nations have a 'C-17' style freight bay arrangement with flip roller and electronic locks etc.
I've heard various rumours as to why this is the case:
MoD felt the design was 'too complicated' and hard to maintain.
Simple cost saving by having an older system fitted.
Movers wanting standardisation across the AT fleet. E.g. The roller and guidance system common to both the K and VC10 (this obviously makes less sense).
The aircraft were flown before the cargo floor was fitted and this 'bent' and unable to accept the standard floor (even more dubious).
If anyone out there could shed light on this I would be most interested.