Jerc's a proven commodity

More from the ever-expanding "if it ain't broke" file - this time on the utility of a proven platform (ht:JMH):

The U.S. Air Force has found that the half century old C-130 transport design is still the most effective way to support military operations in wartime.

...

The C-130J transport proved to be more than just another model in the fifty year old C-130 design. Mainly because it's cheaper and easier to use. Like most new commercial transports, the C-130 emphasizes saving money. The new engines generate 29 percent more thrust while using 15 percent less fuel. Increased automation reduced crew size from four to three. The C-130J is more reliable and easier to maintain. And this isn't all predictions. So far, C-130Js have cost nearly twenty percent less per hour than previous models. [Babbler's emphasis]

I've said it before, and will say it again: I hope that the A400M turns out to be the best thing since sliced bread. I hope it turns the tactical transport world on its ear, and blazes a glorious trail for western militaries to follow. If that happens, I'd hope Canada would look at slowly migrating over from one platform to another as airframes age and need replacing.

But until that advantage is proven, Canada doesn't have a big enough military budget to take a runner on the proposition. The Jerc is the more prudent choice, by far.