Cache History:
This cache 'Prize Norton - The Hercules' is the last remaining cache of a series of six originally placed by Stucuk, TT and De Boyz all on a theme of aircraft based at RAF Brize Norton. The other five were archived in July 2014 following footpath issues, but this one remained, and with the cache owner moving away from the area, the cache was adopted (and amended) in September 2018.
Cache Details:
C-130J Hercules – This aircraft is the RAF’s four engine turboprop aircraft which is based at RAF Brize Norton. This aircraft is highly flexible and used for many roles including troop movement, cargo carrying, vehicle movements, airdrop and supply missions, with 25 remaining in service with the Royal Air Force. There are now only two variants left in service; the C-130J-30 C.Mk4 version (Extended body) with 15 aircraft in the ZH865 to ZH879 number range flown by 47 Sqn and the C-130J C.Mk5 version (Standard body) with 10 aircraft in the ZH880 to ZH889 number range flown by 206 Sqn. These aircraft remain a favourite of flight crew, but are steadily being phased out with the introduction of Airbus A400M 'Atlas' aircraft of which 18 will be accepted into service flying with 226 Sqn. The C.Mk5 variants will be withdrawn from service in 2022 and the C.Mk4 variants (with their in-flight re-fuelling probes) will receive a life extension programme and will be withdrawn in 2030.
Small clip/lock container containis a log book and has room for trackables to be swapped.