Taipei has opted to transition to the C-130J Super Hercules, prioritizing interoperability with US and allied forces in contested environments. Earlier upgrade plans for its 19 C-130H aircraft included cockpit improvements, SAR enhancements, and collision-avoidance systems, but airframe fatigue and rising costs prompted reassessment. The J variant enhances efficiency, range, and takeoff performance while reducing maintenance demands. Following induction, the legacy H fleet will receive limited domestic updates and operate alongside the new aircraft to maintain logistics readiness.
