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Boeing, a major figure in both commercial and military aviation, is considering the possibility of restarting production of its C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. The C-17 has played a significant role in strategic airlift operations since its introduction in the 1990s, serving air forces across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific.
The aircraft was originally developed by McDonnell Douglas in the 1980s to meet the United States Air Force's (USAF) need for a heavy-lift transport capable of operating from short runways. After Boeing acquired McDonnell Douglas in 1997, it continued producing the C-17 until 2015. Production ended due to falling demand and budget constraints, particularly after the Department of Defense stated in its 2010 budget request: “DOD does not need additional C-17 aircraft. Therefore, we are ending production under this program.”
Since then, global events have renewed interest in large military transports like the C-17. Increased defense spending and conflicts such as Russia’s war in Ukraine have prompted several countries to look into expanding their airlift capabilities. Turbo Sjogren, Vice President and General Manager of Boeing Global Services–Government Services, confirmed at the 2025 Paris Air Show that discussions are underway with at least one country regarding new orders for the C-17.
