Fairchild C-123K Provider (3243)

It was originally designed as a glider, although the design provided for it eventually being powered. A tactical transport, it was a versatile aircraft able to be converted in a short time to a troop transport carrying 61 troops, MedEvac transport with 50 litters, or a freighter carrying 15,000 pounds of cargo. It was used extensively in Vietnam, hauling all kinds of cargo including live animals; used for defoliation missions; two were converted for night interdiction. Two small jet engines could be attached underwing near the external tanks; the attachment points are visible on this aircraft at Castle Air Museum. This type was flown by five other countries and Air America, the CIA's covert transport operation.