The Military Air Transport Service (MATS) was established in 1948 to provide the United States Air Force with a global airlift capability during the early Cold War. Operating worldwide in all weather and over vast distances, MATS aircraft became the backbone of strategic and humanitarian air transport throughout the 1950s and early 1960s.
During this period, USAF transports were commonly finished in natural metal with fluorescent “Day-Glo” orange panels applied to noses, wingtips, and tail sections. These high-visibility markings were intended to improve mid-air recognition, ground safety, and search-and-rescue visibility, particularly during training, overwater operations, and in poor weather conditions. While striking in appearance, Day-Glo paints were also notoriously difficult to maintain, leading to their gradual phase-out later in the decade as camouflage and low-visibility schemes became the norm.
If you appreciate classic airlift history and the iconic look of early USAF transports, this livery delivers a timeless and instantly recognizable Hercules. 1961 USAF Military Air Transport Service (MATS) paint scheme for the DCS World C-130.
This skin captures the unmistakable look of early Hercules aircraft as they appeared at the dawn of global airlift dominance. Natural metal finishes accented by high-visibility Day-Glo orange panels, bold USAF markings, and period-correct stenciling. Designed for safety, visibility, and unmistakable presence, these colors defined an era when MATS aircraft connected continents and carried America’s reach worldwide.
Weathered aluminum tones, authentic contrast between metal and fluorescent panels, and historically accurate markings that look just as striking on the ramp as they do in flight. Whether you’re recreating vintage airlift missions or simply want a standout livery in your hangar, this skin brings unmistakable Cold War atmosphere to DCS.
Note: Aluminum skin is best viewed in sunlight with clouds present to help show reflections on the skin*
