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)
U.S. Air Force F-35s and F-22s regularly deploy deep into the Pacific region from Alaska, Utah, and Hawaii. In the future, though, the head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command would like to see the Air Force permanently station fifth-generation aircraft west of the international date line—closer to China.