The initial production of C-130 was the C-130A, having four Allison T-56-A-11 or -9 turboprops. A total of 219 C-130s were ordered and delivered by December 1956.

The C-130J Hercules is the newest version of the Hercules. The aircraft features new Rolls-Royce Allison AE2100 turboprops with six-bladed composite scimitar propellers, digital avionics, reduced crew requirements, increased reliability and lower operating costs.

The C-130J incorporates state-of-the-art technology to reduce manpower requirements, lower operating and support cost and life cycle cost savings compared to earlier C-130 models. The C-130 can accommodate 92 combat troops. It also flies at a higher cruise speed and lands in a shorter distance. The first delivery of the C-130J began in 1999. The USAF was the largest operator ordering the aircraft in increased numbers.

The C-130J has several major improvements such as advanced two-pilot flight station, color multi-functional LCD and head-up displays, state-of-the-art technology reducing manpower requirements, low power color radar, digital moving map display, new turboprop engines with six-bladed, all composite propellers, digital auto pilot and improved fuel, environmental and ice protection systems.

As of December 2006, a total procurement of C-130J reached 186 orders. There's another purchase of six C-130J aircraft upon request by the Indian Air Force. By mid 2007, the C-130J sales will be finalized.

The C-130J will eventually replace the C-130Es and C-130Hs.