“Kentucky ANG 165th Airlift Squadron C-130H” poster art.

The 165th Airlift Squadron (165 AS) is part of the 123rd Airlift Wing (123 AW) at the Kentucky Air National Guard, located in Louisville KY. It operates 8 C-130H model aircraft. It not only supports federal USAF missions, but plays a pivotal role in local/state programs. The Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Airlift Wing is one of the most decorated units in the United States Air Force, with a proud history of global engagement and unsurpassed achievement. and is proud to serve today as the “Thoroughbred Express”!

The C-130 Hercules is a four–engined turboprop military transport aircraft. Capable of using unprepared runways for takeoffs and landings, the C-130 was originally designed as a troop, medevac, and cargo transport aircraft. The versatile airframe has found uses in a variety of other roles, including as a gunship (AC-130), for airborne assault, search and rescue, scientific research support, weather reconnaissance, aerial refueling, maritime patrol, and aerial firefighting. It is now the main tactical airlifter for many military forces worldwide.