The mighty Lockheed C-130 Hercules is one of the most recognizable transport aircraft in the world today.  First flown on August 23, 1954, the “Herky Bird” is one of only five aircraft types that have met and surpassed the 50-year mark of continuous service in current inventory.  The C-130 is still being produced in fact, as the C-130J.  The C-130 was originally designed as a troop transport, but it’s scope has broadened over the years to include service as an inflight refueler (KC-130), gunship (AC-130), and even use by the US Navy and Air National Guard to support operations in Antarctica on skis!

For many who crewed on or currently fly aboard the C-130, the airplane holds a special place in their heart. For the subject of this entry, his passion for the C-130 Hercules extended to the point where he had one permanently placed on his forearm as a tattoo tribute to the timeless transport.

Artist Matt Bremer of Sinnin Skinn Inkworks in Orfordville, WI did the great piece in black and gray for the client with great results!

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The Sikorsky CH-53E (S-80) Super Stallion is the latest operating derivation of the HH-53 (S-65) “Super Jolly Green Giant” Sea Stallion helicopter originally developed in the 1960′s for search and air rescue and heavy lift missions.  Unlike the earlier twin-engined HH-53 variant, the CH-53E is powered by three General Electric T64-GE-416(A) turboshaft engines and incorporates a host of other changes from the earlier S-65 model – though dimensionally they are similar. The CH-53E is one of the largest helicopters in the world and its main missions are heavy-lift to forward zones, amphibious assault support, mine sweeping, casualty transport, and SAR (Search and Rescue).

**Please note, the earlier post here listed this tattoo inaccurately as an MH-53 Pavelow III – we have corrected this to the CH-53E – our apologies to veterans and servicemen of the type**

In honor of the monstrous helicopter, artist Niko of Hold Fast Tattoo in Chandler, AZ created this black and gray tattoo piece.

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  The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird was one of the most famous aircraft to emerge from the famous Lockheed ADP (Advanced Development Projects) division nicknamed “The Skunk Works” under the leadership of Clarence “Kelly” Johnson.  The Skunk Works team were responsible for some of the most advanced and secretive aircraft in the air.  The U-2 Spyplane, the F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter, and the F-104 Starfighter were just some of the designs that came into the public eye — many others may never be known!

This tattoo is a forearm piece illustrating the top view of the SR-71 Blackbird.  The Mach 3 capable, high altitude spyplane is one of the most unique and recognizable aircraft designs of the jet era.  The choice to use black and gray shading for the tattoo is fitting as the plane most always was seen in public in its stealthy black paint.

Artist Brendan Mudd of Inkfish Tattoo in Maidstone, Kent UK created this unique piece.

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