RNZAF Hercules retirement patch

The last of the fleet of C-130H(NZ) Hercules aircraft has been retired today, 31 January 2025, after 60 years of service.  A couple of badges have been made to mark this occasion.  (One patch has metallic gold thread woven in the design).

The first C-130H Hercules arrived in New Zealand in 1965.  Operated by No. 40 Squadron of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, the tactical transport plane has flown missions around the world, from the Middle East to Antarctica and all places in between.  The Hercules aircraft have been involved in countless humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions to New Zealand’s Pacific neighbours and transported vital military equipment and aid to multiple countries.  The aircraft has provided airlifts as well as participated in numerous international operations and exercises.  Hundreds of flights to the Antarctic carrying scientists and equipment for essential research to the frozen continent have occurred over the decades.

The RNZAF has been replacing the C-130H(NZ) aircraft with a fleet of five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules during the last couple of years.