US Air Force Begins Work on C-17 and C-5M Replacement
The US Air Force has started early efforts to replace its C-17 and C-5M airlifters, citing aging fleets and future contested logistics as key drivers.
The US Air Force has started work on replacing its C-17 and C-5M airlifters, though the program is still in its early stages. Fiscal 2027 documents show the service is investing in long distance over-the-horizon communications and protection, along with airlift service life extension programs.
An aging fleet and anticipated contested logistics drive the need for new aircraft. In the Asia-Pacific region especially, current airlifters would be vulnerable. The documents say the service is exploring next-generation airlift options, but no concrete replacement aircraft has been identified.
Sources
- simpleflying.comThe US Air Force's Plan To Fly The C-17 Until 2075 While Its Replacement Exists Only On Paper