Canadian company chosen as C-130J HMC

ABBOTSFORD, British Columbia, Aug. 13 (UPI)

Cascade Aerospace of Canada is to become a Heavy Maintenance Center for Lockheed Martin's C-130J Hercules aircraft.

The appointment, which makes the company one of only two HMC's for the C-130J in the world, was made last week at the Abbotsford International Air Show.

Cascade is already a Lockheed Martin Hercules Service Center for legacy C-130B-H aircraft.

"During its time as an existing Hercules maintainer, Cascade has demonstrated it has both the capability and process integrity to be certified as a C-130 Heavy Maintenance Center," said George Shultz, Lockheed Martin vice president and general manager for C-130 programs.

"As we see worldwide interest in C-130 support expand, it is incumbent upon us to ensure that qualified and experienced companies support the Hercules community. Cascade is dedicated to supporting Canada's CC-130 fleet and authorizing its role as an HMC provider is a natural step in our overall partnership."

"We are honored to receive this prestigious status from Lockheed Martin," said David Schellenberg, Cascade Aerospace chief executive officer. "We are privileged to have Lockheed Martin's respect and credibility behind it and to be positioned as one of only two C-130 HMCs in the world.

"With more than 1,450 C-130s currently operating in 65 countries around the globe -- as well as Lockheed Martin's C-130J delivery backlog and strong order book -- this much-appreciated standing will significantly increase the international opportunities for Cascade Aerospace."

The Canadian air force operates 17 CC-130J aircraft.

Cascade received a 20-year contract from Lockheed Martin 2010 for maintenance services to support Canada's new CC-130Js.