The C-130J is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft used for air-dropping paratroopers and materiel, in service in two standard versions (J) and stretched (J-30). Used by the 46th Air Brigade in Pisa, the aircraft now forms the backbone of the Air Force's transport component, including for operations outside national borders. 

Among the Hercules' main commitments is the network of air links to and from the most important out-of-area operational theatres, in the presence of threats and at night, often performing assault landings and take-offs from semi-prepared and small runways. 

The availability of the C-130J has also made it possible to acquire special equipment such as the ATI (Aircraft Transport Isolator) stretcher, a unique capability in Europe that allows for the safe air transport of biocontaminated patients for their subsequent admission to specialised hospital facilities.

Developed from the previous C-130H with new engines and avionics, it is designed and built entirely in the United States.