The Lockheed HC-130 is an extended-range, search and rescue (SAR) and Combat search and rescue (CSAR) version of the C-130 Hercules transport. The HC-130H and HC-130J versions are operated by the United States Coast Guard in a SAR and maritime reconnaissance role.

The United States Coast Guard operates 21 HC-130H aircraft from four bases around the United States: CGAS Sacramento (former McClellan AFB), California; CGAS Clearwater, Florida; CGAS Kodiak, Alaska; and CGAS Barbers Point (formerly NAS Barbers Point), Hawaii. The aircraft are used for search and rescue, enforcement of laws and treaties, illegal drug interdiction, marine environmental protection, military readiness, International Ice Patrol missions, as well as cargo and personnel transport.

The Coast Guard also currently operates an additional 6 HC-130J aircraft from CGAS Elizabeth City, North Carolina.

Neither the HC-130H nor the HC-130J in their U.S. Coast Guard variants are equipped for the aerial refueling of helicopters.