The C-130J is a four-engine turboprop military transport and paratrooper airdrop aircraft, in service in two standard versions: J and an extended version J-30. Operated by the 46th Air Brigade in Pisa, the aircraft serves as the backbone of the Italian Air Force’s transport component, even in operations outside national borders. Among the main tasks of the Hercules aircraft are the air transport network to and from major out-of-area operational theatres, often involving night operations and assault landings on semi-prepared and small runways. The availability of the C-130J has also allowed for the acquisition of special equipment such as the Aircraft Transport Isolator (ATI stretcher), a unique ability in Europe that enables the safe air transport of biocontaminated patients for subsequent treatment in specialised medical facilities. Developed from the previous C-130H with new engines and avionics, it is designed and built entirely in the United States.

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.