Contract signed for Marshall to modify aircraft replacing US Navy's Fat Albert

A contract has been signed for Marshall to carry out the maintenance, painting and modifications to the aircraft that will replace the US Navy’s iconic Fat Albert.

The deal between the US and UK for the C-130J Super Hercules was finalised in the Marshall chalet at the Royal International Air Tattoo.

The US Navy purchased the aircraft from the UK Ministry of Defence to replace the C-130T that the squadron had used for 17 years until retiring it in May. Fat Albert was part of the Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron and the new four-engine, six-blade turboprop plane will serve as the team's logistical support aircraft.

Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group CEO Alistair McPhee, said: “We are extremely proud to host this momentous signing ceremony at RIAT, the world’s greatest air show, in the presence of so many leading representatives from our two nations.

“Fat Albert was an iconic aircraft and our teams are looking forward to getting its new replacement into service early next year. It will be great to see this eye-catching aircraft on show around the world in the future.”

The US’ Major General Masiello said: “We are very much looking forward to taking delivery of the aircraft and are very grateful to both the UK MoD and Marshall for enabling this transaction and know that the C-130 Hercules will be a valuable addition to our flying demonstration team.”

Air Vice Marshal Cooper, RAF officer commanding number two group, said: “This is a superb indication of the co-operation between the militaries of the United Kingdom and the United States. We know that this C-130 Hercules will serve the United States Navy as well as it has served the Royal Air Force.”