First of four C-17s is on its way to replace Hercules

[Guest Chainsaw]

Steve CreedyOctober 13, 2006

The first of Australia's new fleet of four C-17 Globemaster III's was rolled out of the hangar this week in California, ahead of its initial flight later this month.

 

In the slow-moving world of defence procurement, US aerospace giant Boeing is moving at lightning speed to deliver the big four-engine jet airlifter before the end of the year.

 

The aerospace giant this week confirmed that it remained on track to deliver the first plane by November 28, less than seven months after Australia signed a letter of agreement with the US Government.

 

"It's very exciting to see Australia's first C-17 become a reality so quickly," said Boeing C-17 program manager Dave Bowman.

 

The RAAF is making a long-term investment of more than $2 billion to acquire the big planes but said the deal would boost Australia's flexibility and self-reliance.

 

Until now, it has relied on the smaller C-130 Hercules and ageing foreign charter aircraft.

 

Defence officials estimated 50 C-130 flights over a month could now be achieved by a C-17 in half the time with perhaps only 20 sorties.

 

The big plane carries only three crew, including a loadmaster, and can lift almost four times the load of a Hercules.

 

Australia's planes are the most advanced variant of the C-17 and feature upgrades to combat lighting, formation flying capability and flight control software.

 

The aircraft will be identical to their US counterparts other than its RAAF markings and a black stallion signifying it will be operated by No36 Squadron from Amberley RAAF base in Queensland.

 

"The C-17 will give Australia a new global airlift capability, significantly enhancing our ability to support national and international operations, and major disaster rescue and relief efforts," said acting chief of air force, air vice-marshal John Blackburn.

 

The first plane is scheduled for a welcome ceremony in Canberra before arriving at Amberley in early December.

 

Another plane is due to be delivered next year with the final two scheduled to arrive in 2008.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/st ... 49,00.html