The Fairchild C-123K Provider was a short-range assault transport used to airlift troops and cargo onto short runways and unprepared airstrips. Designed by the Chase Aircraft Company, the C-123 evolved from earlier designs for large assault gliders. The production version, with two piston engines, was designated the C-123B. Chase began manufacture in 1953, but the production contract was transferred to Fairchild. The first of more than 300 Fairchild-built C-123Bs entered service in July 1955. Between 1966 and 1969, 184 C-123Bs were converted to C-123Ks by adding two J85 jet engines for improved performance. The C-123's most important service was during the Vietnam War, when Providers constantly flew troops and supplies to small, dirt airstrips at isolated bases. Their relatively large cargo hold and excellent short field performance made them essential to holding these widely scattered bases. The aircraft numbered 54-633 entered service with the USAF in February 1958 and served with various units around the world. It arrived in Vietnam in August 1966, served with several units in many locations there until returning to the United States in July 1970, continued in service until April 1982, and was flown to Robins AFB in 1988. Warner Robins Air Logistics Center provided worldwide logistics support and management of all USA C-123s during their service life.