C-X Operational Effectiveness in the Intratheater Environment
Abstract
The C-X has been proposed as the solution to both the intertheater and intratheater airlift shortfalls. It is primarily a strategic airlift aircraft capable of airlifting outsize cargo with the additional designed-in capability to allow it to perform the tactical airlift role. This paper analyzes the C-X's operational effectiveness in the European theater environment in terms of capabilities, mission, and survivability/vulnerability to the threat. C-X capabilities were evaluated through comparison of the proposed C-17 to the requirements states in the Request for Proposal (RFP) and existing airlift capabilities. Doctrine for the C-X mission is nonexistent; therefore, existing airlift doctrine was reviewed for applicability. Survivability/vulnerability was assess through application of the C-17's mission and design characteristics to the expected European Threat. Although possessing the capability and supported by existing airlift doctrine, the C-X is found to be effective, both for direct delivery if restricted to the theater rear and for intratheater airlift no further forward than the division rear in the main battle area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA579951
Entities
People
- Donald M. Dessert
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College