Boeing C-17 Globemaster III

The strategic airlifter built to move armies across the globe

Overview

Boeing United States ICAO: C17 1991–2015 Active $218 million (2007)

The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III was developed to combine intercontinental range with tactical flexibility. Designed to carry heavy equipment directly into austere airfields, it became one of the most capable military transport aircraft ever built and a cornerstone of modern strategic airlift.

Live Fleet Activity (C17)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
4 × Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100
Engine type
Turbofan
Thrust
4 × 40,440 lbf · 180 kN
Avionics
BAE Systems Avionics , AlliedSignal AN/APS-133(V) weather and mapping radar
Wing tips
Canted winglets
Seats
102
Crew
—
Cabin width
18 ft 0 in  ·  5.49 m
Cabin height
14 ft 9 in  ·  4.50 m
Cabin length
88 ft 0 in  ·  26.82 m
Exterior length
173 ft 11 in  ·  53.00 m
Tail height
55 ft 1 in  ·  16.79 m
Fuselage diameter
22 ft 6 in  ·  6.86 m
Wing span
169 ft 9 in  ·  51.75 m
Baggage volume
20,899 ft³  ·  591.8 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
585,000 lb  ·  265,500 kg
Max landing weight
447,000 lb  ·  202,500 kg
Max payload
171,000 lb  ·  77,500 kg
Fuel capacity
35,550 gal · 134,600 L · 107,600 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
450 kt  ·  518 mph  ·  833 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
115 kt  ·  132 mph  ·  213 km/h
Range
2,420 nm  ·  2,780 mi  ·  4,480 km
Fuel burn
0.07 nm/gal  ·  0.03 km/L
Ceiling
45,000 ft  ·  13,700 m
Rate of climb
1,500 ft/min  ·  8 m/s
Takeoff distance
7,600 ft  ·  2,320 m
Landing distance
3,000 ft  ·  910 m
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Boeing C-17 Globemaster III

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Operational Context

Boeing C-17 Globemaster III — the backbone of modern strategic mobility

The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III was conceived during the Cold War to replace older cargo aircraft and meet the growing need for rapid global deployment. First flown in 1991 and entering service with the U.S. Air Force in 1995, the C-17 was designed to transport large payloads across long distances while retaining the ability to operate from relatively short and semi-prepared runways.

Powered by four Pratt & Whitney F117 turbofan engines, the C-17 can carry heavy equipment such as main battle tanks, armored vehicles, helicopters, and fully equipped troops. It has a maximum payload capacity of approximately 170,900 pounds and a range exceeding 2,400 nautical miles with a full payload. With aerial refueling, it can extend its reach to intercontinental distances without landing.

One of the C-17’s defining characteristics is its ability to perform tactical operations despite its size. The aircraft can execute steep approaches, short takeoffs and landings, and rapid cargo unloading through its rear ramp system. Advanced avionics and flight control systems allow it to operate efficiently in both strategic and frontline environments.

The C-17 has supported military operations, humanitarian relief missions, and disaster response efforts worldwide. Operated by several allied air forces in addition to the United States, it remains a vital component of global air mobility and one of the most versatile heavy airlifters ever produced.