Agreed Frazzled.
Should have bought new M/C-130Js for ALS, SF spt, and (if pockets are deep enough) USMC type Tac AAR/gunship capability to replace the 37SQN H and
Js. C-27A adds another aircraft to KC-30A, C-17, and current stuffed C-130Js and will struggle to replace the H in tac roles.
If the RAAF really wanted STOL capability how about some 'cheap as chips' GA8 Airvans types that can actually do this mission and also keep pilots happy with base flights for local flying.
And another thing; Chooks back to some people who can actually operate them.