C-12L Huron

The C‑12L Huron is a military version of Beechcraft’s twin‑engine King Air 200 series, adapted for the United States Air Force in the early 1970s. Derived from the civilian Model 90, the airframe was reinforced and equipped with a fully pressurised cabin, rugged landing gear and upgraded avionics to meet tactical transport and liaison requirements. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A‑41 turboprop engines delivering 850 shp each, the Huron cruises at 300 kt (560 km/h) with a range of over 1 800 nm, allowing rapid movement of personnel, equipment and small cargo between forward bases. Standard equipment includes a GPS/INS navigation suite, multi‑frequency radios, and a side‑door parachute‑drop capability that can release up to 5 000 lb of supplies. Throughout its service, the C‑12L has supported pilot training, executive transport, medevac and intelligence‑surveillance missions, proving versatile in both peacetime and combat environments. Its reliability and low operating cost have made it a workhorse for the Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and allied forces, cementing the King Air lineage as a cornerstone of modern military utility aviation. In recent years, upgraded glass‑cockpit avionics and improved data‑link systems have extended the platform’s relevance, ensuring the C‑12L remains a vital link between command centers and the front lines.