The first Boeing C-17 Globemaster III for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has rolled out of the company's paint hangar in Long Beach, Calif., and has begun preparations for its first flight, scheduled for later this month. "The C-17 will give Australia a new global airlift capability, significantly enhancing our ability to support national and international operations, and major disaster rescue and relief efforts," said Australia's Acting Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal John Blackburn. "All of Australia is looking forward to delivery of this new capability and seeing it quickly commence operation. The C-17 will meet the vital airlift needs of the Australian Defence Force over the next 30 years."
Other than the aircraft's unique Australian markings, the new C-17 is identical to the U.S. Air Force C-17s that Boeing is now manufacturing. The black stallion on the C-17's tail identifies the airplane as part of the RAAF's No. 36 Squadron, an airlift unit that will be based in Amberley, west of Brisbane. The kangaroo on the aircraft's fuselage is part of the RAAF roundel, a distinctive emblem painted on military aircraft to indicate its nation of origin.
Read more
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.