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Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Ga. – June 26, 2006 – Sometimes you can get enough of a good thing.
Versions of the C-5 Galaxy have been transporting troops and equipment around the world in every conflict since the Vietnam War in the 1960s. A program to update and improve the C-5 is aimed to keep the airlifters operational even longer — through 2040.
But the C-5M Super Galaxy is more than just operational. It can haul more cargo, go farther and faster and use shorter runways. It doesn’t hurt that it also saves money in future operations and support costs, either.
The Super Galaxy took its maiden flight at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia on June 19 after the United States Air Force accepted delivery of the first C-5M Galaxy at a roll-out ceremony May 15 at Lockheed Martin’s plant in Marietta. It was the first of 111 planes that will undergo modernization at the facility, expending the fleet life by 25 years or more.
The updated C-5 features more powerful engines, which will deliver a 22 percent increase in thrust, a 30 percent shorter take-off roll and a 38 percent higher climb to initial altitude, as well as a modernized cockpit with a digital, all weather flight control system, a new communications suite and enhanced navigation and safety equipment.
It is the only aircraft capable of carrying 100 percent of certified air-transportable cargo, with a dedicated passenger compartment enabling commanders to have troops and their equipment arrive in an area of operation simultaneously.
It’s an effort that also makes financial sense.
"The C-5 will save over $20 billion, it pays for itself and them some,” Col. Kevin Keck, C-5 Systems Group Commander, told Air Mobility Command. “It's a one-of-a-kind aircraft in strategic airlift with the ability to carry twice as much cargo as other systems. It's a force multiplier."
The first newly modified C-5M Super Galaxy on display for military, civilian and employee visitors at Lockheed Martin’s Marietta, Ga., facility on May 16. The C-5M is the result of a major modernization effort including new avionics and engines. (Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin)
The C-5M in flight during the First Flight ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s Marietta, Ga. plant. The new version strategic airlifter will be able to haul more cargo, farther, faster and use shorter runways.
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The improved C-5 promises more faithful years of service.
Upgrades to the venerable airlifter include new, more powerful engines, a modern cockpit with a digital, all weather flight control system, a new communications suite and enhanced navigation and safety equipment. (Lockheed Martin photo/David Key)
The C-5M takes off during its First Flight ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s Marietta, Ga. plant. This flight takes place 38 years after the C-5 Galaxy’s maiden flight, June 30, 1968.
Photos taken from: (Unless otherwise noted) U.S. Air Force
For More Information
Dobbins Air Reserve Base
Lockheed Martin
United States Air Force
Air Mobility Command
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