C-17 Globemaster III

C-17 Globemaster III
The C-17 Globemaster III is the most flexible cargo aircraft to enter the Air Force. The C-17 is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area. The aircraft can perform tactical airlift and airdrop missions and can transport litters and ambulatory patients during aeromedical evacuations. The inherent flexibility and performance of the C-17 force improve the ability of the total airlift system to fulfill the worldwide air mobility requirements of the United States, The C-17 measures 174 feet long with a wingspan of 169 feet. The aircraft is powered by four Pratt & Whitney F117-PW 100 turbofan engines. The aircraft is operated by a crew of three, (pilot, co-pilot, and loadmaster), reducing manpower requirements, risk exposure and long-term operating costs. Maximum payload capacity of the C-17 is 170,900 pounds and its maximum gross takeoff weight is 585.000 pounds. The C-17 has an unrefueled range of approximately 2400 nautical miles and its cruise speed is approximately 450 knots.