I remember back in the late '90s seeing a C-130A on static at the Dayton Air Show. It was painted in the earlier USAF white and gray half and half scheme(like Hanoi Taxi) and I think was still operating the early 3 blade props(?). If I recall correctly this bird was being used as a test bed for some sort of Laser system. The bottom of the aircraft was cut out around where pallet position one and maybe two of the cargo deck were and in it's place was a rotisserie for the laser system so that during flight it could point out the bottom.
Anyone know of the Hercules I'm referrring to? Also is it still touring?
I do remember that "The USAF's Oldest Flying C-130" was written above the crew entrance, aft of the cockpit.
At the time I was with the 910th in Youngstown operating in "H" models. The big thing that stuck out in my memory wasn't so much the major obivous differences between the "A" and "H" models. Believe it or not it was the "Commode".

Where in the "H"s we had a nice fold-down platform with a toilet to sit upon and even a nice curtain for privacy, would you believe that??:lol: The "A" model had what appeared to be a milk jug cut inhalf with a hose running out the back of the aircraft. Out in plain sight mind you.

Go figure as to what my mind chooses to remember.
Well if anyone can point me in the direction to finding this aircraft I would really appreciate it. Thanks
Shay
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Semper Fortis