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C-17 Globemaster III

The C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft used for strategic and tactical airlift, including troop, cargo, airdrop, and medical evacuation missions.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The C-17 Globemaster III is a large military transport aircraft developed for the United States Air Force and later produced by Boeing. It is used for strategic and tactical airlift, including troop, cargo, airdrop, and medical evacuation missions. The aircraft is known for operating from short, austere airfields while carrying heavy payloads.

Development and service

The C-17 was developed for the U.S. Air Force by McDonnell Douglas and later Boeing. It entered service in 1993 and became an important military transport in U.S. and allied fleets.

Design and capabilities

The aircraft is a high-wing, four-engine transport designed for long-range haulage and short-field performance. Its cargo capability and ability to operate from austere airfields distinguish it from many other transport aircraft.

Missions

The C-17 is used for rapid movement of troops, cargo, and oversized loads, as well as airdrop and medical evacuation missions. It can also support humanitarian relief operations.

Operators

The largest operator is the United States Air Force, but the type is also flown by several other national air forces. Canadian use is associated with the Royal Canadian Air Force through multinational and allied airlift operations.

Key facts

  • The C-17 performs strategic airlift, tactical airlift, airdrop, and aeromedical evacuation missions.
  • It can deliver troops and cargo directly to small or austere airfields.
  • The aircraft has four Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 turbofan engines.
  • It entered service in the 1990s and became a core U.S. military airlift asset.
  • Boeing has reported 275 C-17s operating worldwide, with the U.S. Air Force as its largest customer.
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Canadian context

Canada is listed among the operators of the C-17 Globemaster III, reflecting its role in Royal Canadian Air Force and allied airlift operations.[4][5]

Frequently asked questions

What is the C-17 Globemaster III used for?
It is used for strategic and tactical airlift, transporting troops, cargo, and oversized equipment, and for airdrop and medical evacuation missions.
Who manufactures the C-17?
Boeing is the manufacturer; the aircraft was originally developed by McDonnell Douglas before Boeing’s involvement.
When did the C-17 enter service?
The aircraft entered service in 1993.
How many engines does the C-17 have?
It has four Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 turbofan engines.
Can the C-17 land on short airstrips?
Yes. It is designed to operate from small, austere airfields and to deliver cargo close to the point of need.

References

  1. U.S. Air Force — https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1529726/c-17-globemaster-iii/
    Supports: Primary mission, payload, dimensions, engines, and aeromedical evacuation capability.
  2. Boeing — https://www.boeing.com/defense/tankers-and-transports/c-17-globemaster
    Supports: Aircraft type, operating role, worldwide fleet numbers, and U.S. Air Force fleet size.
  3. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force — https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/195851/boeing-c-17-globemaster-iii/
    Supports: Introduction to service in 1993 and mission roles.
  4. Wikipedia (Slovak) — https://sk.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_C-17_Globemaster_III
    Supports: Operator list including Canada.
  5. Wikipedia (Czech) — https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_C-17_Globemaster_III
    Supports: Operator list including Canada.