C-17 Globalmaster III

The C-17 Globemaster III is the most flexible cargo aircraft to enter the airlift force. The C-17 is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. The aircraft can perform tactical airlift and airdrop missions and can transport litters and ambulatory patients during aeromedical evacuations. The inherent flexibility and performance of the C-17 force improve the ability of the total airlift system to fulfill the worldwide air mobility requirements of the United States. The ultimate measure of airlift effectiveness is the ability to rapidly project and sustain an effective combat force close to a potential battle area. Threats to U.S. interests have changed in recent years‚ and the size and weight of U.S.-mechanized firepower and equipment have grown in response to improved capabilities of potential adversaries. This trend has significantly increased air mobility requirements‚ particularly in the area of large or heavy outsize cargo. As a result‚ newer and more flexible airlift aircraft are needed to meet potential armed contingencies‚ peacekeeping or humanitarian missions worldwide. The C-17 is capable of meeting today's demanding airlift missions. Maximum payload capacity of the C-17 is 170‚900 pounds (77‚519 kilograms)‚ and its maximum gross takeoff weight is 585‚000 pounds (265‚352 kilograms). With a payload of 164‚900 pounds (74‚797 kilograms) and an initial cruise altitude of 28‚000 feet (8‚534 meters)‚ the C-17 has an unrefueled range of approximately 2‚400 nautical miles. Its cruise speed is approximately 450 knots (.74 Mach). The design of the aircraft (high-lift wing‚ slats‚ and externally blown flaps) allows it to operate through small‚ austere airfields. The C-17 can take off and land on runways as short as 3‚500 feet (1‚064 meters) and only 90 feet wide (27.4 meters). Even on such narrow runways‚ the C-17 can turn around using a three-point star turn and its backing capability.