Lockheed Martin has delivered the second production C-5M transport to the Air Force. While this Super Galaxy is the second C-5 airframe modified to the new M-model configuration on Lockheed’s production line in Marietta, Ga., it is the fifth C-5M to join the fleet. “With this fifth Super Galaxy, we’re adding a new level of capability to the equation for determining how strategic airlift is used in both present and future contingency operations,” said Maj. Gen. James Rubeor, commander of Air Force Reserve Command’s 22nd Air Force, at Monday’s rollout in Marietta. An aircrew from Dover AFB, Del., ferried the newly upgraded giant to Stewart ANGB, N.Y., following the festivities, to undergo final interior refurbishment, painting, and trim. The Air Force intends to convert 52 C-5s to C-5Ms by giving them new engines and reliability enhancements, along with new avionics under a separate upgrade. (Lockheed release)
The Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.