The C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft designed to provide strategic and tactical airlift capabilities for the United States Air Force (USAF) and its allies. Here's a detailed overview:
Development and History
- Development: The development of the C-17 Globemaster III began in the 1980s to replace the aging C-141 Starlifter fleet. The aircraft was designed by McDonnell Douglas, which later merged with Boeing.
- First Flight: The first flight of the C-17 occurred on September 15, 1991.
- Introduction: It was introduced into the USAF service in 1993.
- Production: The total production run was 279 aircraft, with the last one being delivered in 2015.
Design and Capabilities
- Size and Capacity: The C-17 can carry large payloads, with a maximum payload capacity of 170,900 pounds (77,519 kg). It can transport tanks, armored vehicles, troops, and humanitarian aid, with the ability to airdrop cargo or troops.
- Range: With a ferry range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,704 km), the C-17 is capable of performing strategic airlift missions, delivering equipment or personnel to remote locations worldwide.
- Speed: It has a cruising speed of Mach 0.74 (450 knots, 515 mph, 830 km/h).
- Landing Capabilities: The C-17 is designed for short takeoffs and landings (STOL) and can operate from rough, dirt strips, making it versatile for operations in austere environments.
Operational Use
- Strategic Airlift: The C-17 is crucial for the rapid global mobility of troops and equipment, playing a significant role in various military operations, including support for operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other conflict zones.
- Humanitarian Missions: It has been instrumental in delivering aid during natural disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and numerous other relief efforts.
- International Users: Besides the USAF, the Royal Air Force (RAF), the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the Canadian Forces, NATO, and several other nations operate or have operated the C-17.
Technical Specifications
- Engines: Four Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 turbofan engines.
- Max Takeoff Weight: 585,000 pounds (265,352 kg).
- Length: 174 feet (53.04 m).
- Wingspan: 169 feet 9 inches (51.74 m).
- Height: 55 feet 1 inch (16.79 m).
Sources
Related Topics