Lockheed Martin breaks ground for C-130J training center

MARIETTA, Ga., June 22 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin has broken ground on a Hercules training center for pilots and crew of C-130J transports and LM-100J commercial freighters.

The center, located at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Marietta, will include classroom space, training devices and a new, reconfigurable C-130J/LM-100J full mission simulator.

The Hercules Training Center is due to open in 2018.

"Our shared investment in the Hercules Training Center continues years of strong partnership between Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics to help equip pilots and aircrews worldwide to command the C-130 platform," said Sandy Samuel, vice president for training and simulation solutions. "We are thrilled to offer our customers even more value through integrated training solutions right here in Marietta where the aircraft is produced."

George Shultz, vice president and general manager for air mobility and maritime missions, said: "As the C-130 original equipment manufacturer, Lockheed Martin has an unmatched knowledge of the Super Hercules — to include providing the most effective training programs for C-130J crews.

"The Lockheed Martin partnership that is at the core of the Hercules Training Center delivers proven insights into the operation of the C-130J and LM-100J platforms."