U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules Lands on Unimproved Runway at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Gifu

Landing Event A U.S.

Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft landed on an unimproved runway for the first time at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Gifu. The aircraft is assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, designated VMGR-152.

This operation occurred at the Japan Air Self-Defense Force facility in Gifu. The KC-130J Super Hercules serves as a multi-role tanker and transport aircraft. VMGR-152 operates under Marine Aircraft Group 12, designated MAG-12.

MAG-12 falls within the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, designated 1st MAW.

Squadron and Group Structure Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, or VMGR-152, handles aerial refueling and transport duties.

The squadron's KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft supports these functions. VMGR-152 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 12. MAG-12 oversees multiple squadrons, including VMGR-152. The group operates within the broader structure of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.

This organizational setup enables coordinated aviation operations.

Aircraft Details The KC-130J Super Hercules is the model involved in the landing.

It performed the first landing on the unimproved runway at Gifu. The aircraft's capabilities include refueling and transport missions. VMGR-152 maintains the KC-130J fleet for its operations. MAG-12 provides group-level support to such squadrons.

The 1st MAW integrates these elements for regional aviation tasks.

Operational Context The landing at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Gifu represents an initial use of the unimproved runway by the KC-130J.

VMGR-152's assignment to this aircraft underscores its role in joint exercises or routine flights. S. Marine Corps aviation standards.