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C-17 Globemaster III faces challenges as USAF considers future transport options

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C-17 Globemaster III faces challenges as USAF considers future transport options
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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, a significant asset to the United States Air Force, faces potential replacement challenges. Designed during the Cold War and first flown in 1991, this aircraft has been operational since 1995 across nine air forces globally. Although production ceased in 2015, discussions about restarting it have persisted.

"The Air Force has 222 C-17 Globemasters in service," and while some suggest reviving its production, others propose modern alternatives. Boeing's vice president noted that "there are a number of other customers who wish they had acquired it at the time." The possibility of reopening production for export orders could reduce costs for new acquisitions by the Air Force.

Despite its capabilities, the C-17 may not align with future strategic needs. The Air Force is considering more agile options like STOVL aircraft due to their ability to operate from dispersed bases worldwide. "When the Air Force eventually starts listing the requirements for a future strategic transport aircraft, they may include short take-offs and vertical landings."

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One such development is Aurora X, which offers vertical lift capabilities and stealth features. Aurora states that "the technology demonstrated in the SPRINT X-plane could be scaled to medium and heavy lift aircraft." However, its current payload capacity remains far below that of the C-17.

Other potential replacements include SpaceX's Starship and DARPA's Liberty Lifter ekranoplan. Defense One mentions that "the Pentagon is also potentially eyeing Starship to help move cargo around the world very quickly."

Replacing or upgrading these strategic airlifters would incur significant costs and time investments. In 2019, The War Zone reported on strategies to extend their lifespan through rotation among units: "It may be possible to extend the life of some of the C-17s further through additional service life extension programs."

With a smaller military today compared to past decades, there might be less demand for large transport aircraft like those used previously. This shift reflects broader changes within U.S. defense logistics.

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