17 Wing's 435 Transport and Rescue Squadron is equipped with 6 CC-130 Hercules to meet its varied roles of strategic airlift, search and rescue and CF-18 air-to-air refuelling (AAR).

Since the last two AAR-configured CC-137s were retired in 1997, 435's five CC-130H(T) Hercules tankers have provided the sole tactical air refuelling capability within Canada's Air Force.

As a SAR platform, the CC-130 provides the primary response capability within the Prairie region. Helicopters from 8 Wing Trenton can be called in as a secondary resource if required.

In their strategic airlift role, 17 Wing CC-130s have carried troops and personnel to troubled spots around the world.

Four modified Dash 8's act as navigation trainers at the Canadian Forces Air Navigation School (CFANS).