To make this website work, we log user data. By using Shephard's online services, you agree to our Privacy Policy, including cookie policy.

×
Open menu Search

Analysis: Is the C-5 Galaxy in it for the long-haul?

23rd December 2024 - 11:50 GMT | by Edward Hunt

RSS

The US Air Force currently operates 52 upgraded C-5Ms. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

What are the realistic options for replacing or replicating the C-5’s unique capability when it finally reaches its end of life?

With the C-5 Galaxy as the US Air Force’s (USAF) – and the West’s – only strategic airlifter, Lockheed Martin’s C-5 Galaxy is the de-facto largest military transport aircraft in operational service. As its sole user, the USAF has 52 of the upgraded ‘M’-model plus a smaller number of older stored C-5Bs that could in theory be modernised.

The Galaxy represents the core of the USAF’s strategic airlift capability under Air Mobility Command (AMC), this being defined roughly as aircraft able to carry oversized payloads over transcontinental distances. In this it is supported by the smaller C-17 Globemaster and at

Already have an account? Log in

Want to keep reading this article?

Read this Article

Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account

  • Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
  • 2 free stories per week
  • Daily news round-up email service
  • Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Create account

Unlimited Access

Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.

  • Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
  • 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
  • Unlimited access to all published premium news
Start your free trial
Edward Hunt

Author

Edward Hunt


Edward has worked in the aerospace and defence Industry since 2005, initially for Jane’s and then …

Read full bio

Share to

Linkedin