Boeing evaluates resume production of the C-17 Globemaster III after ten years

Boeing has recently confirmed that it is in the early stages of discussion about the possible resumption of the production of the C-17 Globemaster III, which made in 2015. Conversations are still preliminary and there is no set schedule for a decision.

According to sources from Boeing, there is interest from several countries in the acquisition of new C-17 units. There are no studies for the development of a substitute, which makes the resumption of production the most viable alternative if the demand is confirmed.

The C-17 production line, located in Long Beach, California, was deactivated in November 2015 after the delivery of 279 aircraft. Since then, Boeing has maintained logistical support and support programs for operational fleets, but does not manufacture the freighter.

The resumption of production is technically possible; However, the negotiations remain restricted to an initial phase of feasibility analysis. Boeing has not released financial projections, performance targets or a possible calendar for manufacturing.

According to international press, India, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and the United Kingdom have expressed interest in acquiring more C-17 units, usually in the same operated version, without modernization or changes. An eventual refined version would add additional cost and time, requiring a new certification.

The C-17 Globemaster III is a military transport aircraft designed for strategic load and short, medium and long range air load missions. With capacity to carry up to 77,500 pounds of paid load and maximum takeoff weight of 265,000 pounds, the model follows without direct rivals in the market. The Airbus A400m, still in production, is the nearest competitor, with a payload of 37,000 pounds, less than half of the C-17.