PIK is a frequent stopover point for US military a/c prior to/after the trans-Atlantic crossing.

This Hercules was on static display at the Australian International Airshow. It first flew using the Lockheed flight-test rego N130JR and was delivered to the RAAF in 2000. Currently serving with 37 Squadron. It's still in the early light grey overall camouflage scheme, but with some of the engine cowlings painted in the newer upper-surface dark grey, suggesting they are replacement parts.

This Hercules was used by the RAAF as their air display aircraft, but seen here on arrival at the Australian International Airshow.

On display at the RAAF Museum Air Pageant. This aircraft carried the Lockheed flight-test rego N73233. It was delivered to the RAAF in 2000 and is currently in service with 37 Squadron, RAAF Richmond. Seen here wearing the RAAF C-130J fleet's new two-tone grey camouflage.

This Hercules, to become A97-450 in due course, visited the Australian International Airshow as a demonstrator being operated by manufacturer Lockheed. It appeared in full RAAF markings, less the serial which is obscured, and with its civil registration painted on the fin. The aircraft operated using the callsign 'Lockheed 4187W'.

Even on static display the windows have to be clean.

Getting ready to fire up for its display at the RAAF Museum Air Pageant.

Lined up on RWY 27 prior to departure after taking part in the static display at a super RIAT 2012. However, the No.4 engine has a problem and has been shut down so take-off was aborted and she trundled down the runway to vacate right at the first exit. The problem couldn't have been serious as she departed (on all four engines) an hour or so later.

An early morning arrival at the Australian International Airshow.

Providing support, would you believe, for the Red Arrows. Some measure of the RAF shortage

Approaching Rwy 04R at its home base.

Arriving for the Malta airshow, with one of the island's iconic churches in the background.