C-17A Aircraft

Abstract

The C-17 can perform the entire spectrum of airlift missions and is specifically designed to operate effectively and efficiently in both strategic and theater environments. Airlift provides essential flexibility when responding to contingencies on short notice anywhere in the world. It is a major element of America's national security strategy and constitutes the most responsive means of meeting mobility requirements. Specific tasks associated with the airlift mission include deployment, employment, sustaining support, retrograde, and combat redeployment. Not only can the C-17 deliver outsize cargo to austere tactical environments, but it also reduces ground time during airland operations. The C-17 will perform its airlift mission well into this century. C-17 RDT&E funding efforts support, but are not limited to: Aircraft performance improvements and airspace access mandates (i.e., Communications/Navigation Improvements); flight test activities and facilities; development of solutions for obsolescence and safety of flight issues; systems engineering/program management administration support; support for avionics laboratories; block development/change management; proposal preparation for new projects; cost estimating and engineering/acquisition studies not related to requirements generation. In FY15 the major thrusts under "Accomplishments/Planned Programs" are: Performance Improvement and Obsolescence, Systems Engineering/Program Management, Boeing Flight Test and Edwards Flight Test. In FY16 the major thrusts transition to: Common Configuration (CC), Extended Range Onboard Inert Gas Generating System (ER/OBIGGS)II, and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS); which are Air Force Acquisition Master List Programs. CC includes several projects: Modernized Replacement Core Integrated Processor (M-RCIP), Communication and Navigation Capability (Comm Nav), Replacement Heads Up Display (RHUD), and Software Improvements. ER OBIGGS II includes OBIGGS Filter Fire Fix which is a redesign of the OBIGGS II shutoff valve. BLOS includes, but is not limited to: Narrowband tactical satellite communications Mobile User Objective System (MUOS); both Aero H/Aero I multi-channel voice and data upgrades delivered via an intermediate-gain antenna; next-generation Military GPS receiver (M-Code); and upgrades for Ka/Ku band satellite communications. This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

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Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2017
Source ID
672569_0401130F_7_3600_PB_2017

Tags

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.

Technology Areas

  • Space

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