C-130 Seaplane

Flinty997

This is probably more suited to the military forum, but I think its more of interest here.

This is concept, but its gaining momentum.

"...The development of a removable amphibious float modification for an MC-130J would enable "runway independent" operations, which, according to Trantham, would extend the global reach and survivability of the aircraft and Air Commandos. "Seaborne operations offer nearly unlimited water landing zones providing significant flexibility for the Joint Force," Trantham said..."

More here...

https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/42395/it-looks-like-a-c-130-seaplane-is-finally-happening

Who doesn't love sea planes though. Making it a reality isn't going to be plane sailing though, (couldn't resist).

Capt'n Midnight

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar-poc38C84

C-130 is carrier capable. So short runways facing into the wind.

If you need even shorter runways ~100m there's this

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Y1IeV98Ul8

or if you have a beach handy

https://youtu.be/8FFwOHao3rI?t=205

Floats are a huge drag though. Fine if you are in Canada with lakes, big waves not so much.

Here's another way to get cargo anywhere with a C-130

Or you could use a Mi-26.

Stovepipe

Or you buy the Japanese OS-1 and -2 flying boats which use C-130 technology anyway.

SEA-130

Capt'n Midnight

A Seaplane would carry 30% less payload 30% less far because of the weight and drag

So use a hydroski - https://www.secretprojects.co.uk/threads/lockheed-c-130-hercules-seaplane-amphibious-versions.26090/