Diving the Tank and the C-130 Hercules: Aqaba’s Military Reefs
Swim through a massive transport plane and explore a sunken tank. A guide to Jordan's unique military artificial reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba.
Diving the Tank and the C-130 Hercules: Aqaba’s Military Reefs
Most divers travel to see coral gardens and schools of fish. But in Aqaba, Jordan, they come to see machines of war.
Jordan has pioneered the use of decommissioned military hardware as artificial reefs, creating some of the most unique and photogenic dive sites in the world. The two most iconic are the M42 Duster Tank and the C-130 Hercules Airplane. Here is how to dive them.
The M42 Duster Tank (The 'New' Tank)
Located in the 'Seven Sisters' dive site, the tank is one of the most famous underwater landmarks in the Middle East. Originally an American-made self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, it was sunk by the Jordanian Royal Ecological Diving Society in 1999.
- Depth: It sits in very shallow water, just 6 meters (20 feet) below the surface.
- Why it's cool: Because it is so shallow, the light is incredible, making it a favorite for snorkelers and photographers. The gun turrets are still visible and are now covered in small sponges and algae.
- Marine Life: Look for lionfish hiding under the tracks and small blennies living in the various holes of the armor.
The C-130 Hercules Airplane
In 2017, King Abdullah II (himself an avid diver) oversaw the sinking of a massive C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft. This isn't a small plane; it’s a giant of the skies that has now become a giant of the reef.
- Depth: The plane sits on a sandy bottom at 18 meters (60 feet).
- The Experience: You can actually swim through the massive cargo hold and emerge in the cockpit. Seeing the pilot's controls and the vast interior of the plane underwater is a surreal, ghost-like experience.
- Photography Tip: Try to get a shot from the front of the aircraft looking into the cockpit windows. The clear blue Aqaba water provides a perfect backdrop for the silhouette of the plane.
The Underwater Military Museum
These two sites were the inspiration for the much larger Underwater Military Museum which opened in 2019. Nearby, you can now dive an entire battle formation including more tanks, armored troop carriers, and even a combat helicopter.
- Depth: These vehicles are spread between 15 and 28 meters.
- The Goal: These artificial reefs aren't just for tourism; they alleviate pressure on the natural coral reefs and provide new habitats for sponges, corals, and fish.
Practical Tips for Diving Jordan's Wrecks
- Shore Access: Both the Tank and the Airplane are easy shore dives. You simply gear up at a local dive center and walk a few minutes into the water.
- Buoyancy is Key: When swimming through the C-130 Hercules, watch your fins. The interior is large, but there are tight spots, and you don't want to damage the developing coral or stir up silt.
- SNSI/PADI Levels: The Tank is accessible to Discover Scuba students and snorkelers. The Airplane and Military Museum require an Open Water certification.
Final Thoughts
Diving Jordan's military reefs is like exploring an underwater time capsule. It is a testament to the country's creative approach to marine conservation and a dream come true for wreck enthusiasts. If you are diving in the Red Sea, don't miss the chance to sit in the pilot's seat of a sunken giant.