The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced on Mar. 26 that a record number of members of Congress have signed a bipartisan letter supporting continued funding for the C-130J Super Hercules program. The move follows a recent letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant, who urged lawmakers to advocate for the program in a communication to the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
The issue is significant because the C-130J program supports thousands of jobs tied to both Lockheed Martin and its nationwide supply chain, as well as more than 33,000 direct and indirect positions across 38 states. According to IAM, ensuring stable production of this aircraft helps sustain high-quality employment and supports national defense needs.
The congressional letter calls on appropriators to add eight C-130Js for the Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve Command, six Navy Reserve KC-130Js, four LC-130J ski-equipped aircraft for the Air National Guard, and $100 million toward fleetwide remediation efforts related to diminishing manufacturing sources.
Bryant said in his correspondence that “the C-130J is the only U.S.-made airlifter currently in production.” He continued: “A stable and efficient C-130J production line is vital in supporting current and future Department of Defense and allied nation airlift requirements. In addition, the C-130J production line provides for thousands of high-quality IAM Union jobs at Lockheed Martin and across the nationwide supply chain.”
The full text of the letter signed by members of Congress can be accessed online through IAM’s official communication channels.
