Hercules to light up the sky over Leszno
The largest airshow in Poland, the Antidotum Airshow Leszno, is all set to take place on June 21-22, 2024. The organizers of the event have announced the return of the Polish Air Force’s largest aircraft, the C-130 Hercules, to the show's flying display.
The C-130 Hercules made its debut at the Antidotum Airshow Leszno in 2021, marking the first-ever full display of the Polish Hercules anywhere. Since then, the aircraft has been a regular feature at the show, with each year's display surpassing the previous one. The Hercules has showcased its exceptional capabilities in a variety of flypasts, demonstrating both the top and bottom sides of the aircraft. It has performed high and slow-speed passes, flypasts with the back ramp open, simulated tactical approaches, and many other manoeuvres.
This year, the Hercules will return to Leszno and put up an even more thrilling daytime tactical display. The aircraft will demonstrate its extraordinary abilities, including its remarkable agility for its size. Visitors can expect to see a series of awe-inspiring flypasts, including low-level passes and steep climbs.
The Polish Air Force C-130 Hercules will also open the nighttime displays in Leszno with a massive flare drop, just like it did in previous years. This spectacular display of pyrotechnics is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving the audience spellbound.
The C-130E will be coming from the 14th Aviation Squadron/3rd Transport Aviation Wing at the 33rd Transport Aviation Base in Powidz.
Hercules flare drop at the Antidotum Airshow Leszno 2022
Lockheed C-130 Hercules
The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is a highly versatile military transport aircraft with four powerful turboprop engines, designed and built by Lockheed (now Lockheed Martin). The aircraft is highly regarded for its ability to operate from unprepared runways for both takeoff and landing, making it ideal for use in a variety of challenging environments. Originally developed as a troop, medevac, and cargo transport aircraft, the C-130 has since found numerous other uses in military and civilian applications.
One of the key features of the C-130 is its ability to be modified for a variety of missions. For example, the AC-130 gunship variant is equipped with a variety of weapons and sensors for use in close air support and ground attack missions. The aircraft has also been used for airborne assault, search and rescue, scientific research support, weather reconnaissance, aerial refueling, maritime patrol, and aerial firefighting. The C-130 is now the primary tactical airlifter for many military forces worldwide, and more than 40 variants of the Hercules, including civilian versions marketed as the Lockheed L-100, operate in over 60 nations.
The C-130 first entered service with the United States Air Force (USAF) in 1956 and has since been adopted by many other nations, including Australia. Over the years, the aircraft has participated in numerous military, civilian, and humanitarian aid operations, including disaster relief efforts and peacekeeping missions. In 2007, the C-130 became the fifth aircraft to reach 50 years of continuous service with its original primary customer, the USAF. With over 60 years of service, the C-130 is the longest continuously produced military aircraft and remains an essential part of many global air forces. In fact, Lockheed Martin continues to produce the updated C-130J Super Hercules to meet the growing demand for this rugged and versatile aircraft.
Hercules in the Polish Air Force
The Polish Air Force currently operates a fleet of C-130E and C-130H aircraft, which are all assigned to the 14th Aviation Squadron/3rd Transport Aviation Wing at the 33rd Transport Aviation Base in Powidz. The C-130E and C-130H are both tactical transport aircraft, which are used for a variety of missions such as troop and equipment transport, medical evacuation, and airdropping of supplies.
The Polish Air Force acquired its first set of C-130E tactical transports in March 2009, when it received five secondhand Lockheed Martin aircraft. These aircraft were purchased at a cost of $98.4 million, which was financed by a US Foreign Military Financing loan. The last of these aircraft arrived in 2010, and since then, they have been heavily utilized by the Polish Air Force for various missions.
On April 13th, 2021, the Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blasczak signed a government-to-government contract with the US for the delivery of five C-130H transporters. The contract was part of the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA) grant program and had a total value of USD 14.3 million. These new aircraft are expected to enhance the Polish Air Force's capabilities further and will be used for missions similar to those of the older C-130E aircraft.
Antidotum Airshow Leszno
The Antidotum Airshow Leszno is a truly unique event that showcases a diverse range of performers, including gliders, light aircraft, modern fighter jets, and large military airlifters. The flying display starts at 4 pm and runs until 11 pm, making it one of the few purely evening/night airshows in Europe.
What sets the Antidotum Airshow Leszno apart from other airshows is its incredible hospitality and relaxed, family-like atmosphere. Visitors can expect to be warmly welcomed and enjoy the friendly and relaxed environment that the event is famous for. The organizers go above and beyond to ensure that everyone has a great time and visitors are treated like VIPs throughout the event.
The Antidotum Airshow Leszno is the only event of its kind in Poland and is scheduled to take place on June 21st and 22nd, 2024. The best civilian and military pilots from all over Europe will showcase their skills during daytime and nighttime displays. The performances are truly spectacular and are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Last year over 45,000 people attended the event, and it is expected to attract even more visitors this year. The event is top-rated, and people come from all over Europe to experience the unique atmosphere and spectacular displays. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with the family, the Antidotum Airshow Leszno is an event you won't want to miss.
