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 urging the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee to fund the C-130J Super Hercules program. This development follows a letter from IAM International President Brian Bryant, who called on lawmakers to support continued production and funding for the aircraft.
The issue is significant because the C-130J program supports thousands of jobs across the country and plays an important role in U.S. military operations. The letter from Congress asks for funding 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 for fleetwide Diminishing Manufacturing Sources remediation.
According to IAM, “the C-130J is a proven workhorse with advanced operational capability and low life-cycle costs.” The union also notes that in addition to supporting thousands of high-quality Machinists Union jobs, “the C-130J program supports more than 33,000 direct and indirect jobs and 497 suppliers across 38 states.”
Bryant said in his letter that “the C-130J is the only U.S.-made airlifter currently in production.” He added: “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.”
Supporters argue that continued investment will help recapitalize aging U.S. airlift fleets while sustaining manufacturing employment linked to this defense contract.
Further details can be found by reading the complete letter signed by members of Congress.
