Analysis: Is the C-5 Galaxy in it for the long-haul?
The US Air Force currently operates 52 upgraded C-5Ms. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
What are the realistic options for replacing or replicating the C-5’s unique capability when it finally reaches its end of life?
With the C-5 Galaxy as the US Air Force’s (USAF) – and the West’s – only strategic airlifter, Lockheed Martin’s C-5 Galaxy is the de-facto largest military transport aircraft in operational service. As its sole user, the USAF has 52 of the upgraded ‘M’-model plus a smaller number of older stored C-5Bs that could in theory be modernised.
The Galaxy represents the core of the USAF’s strategic airlift capability under Air Mobility Command (AMC), this being defined roughly as aircraft able to carry oversized payloads over transcontinental distances. In this it is supported by the smaller C-17 Globemaster and at
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Project Kuiper’s LEO network pioneers Space-as-a-Service]()
Project Kuiper’s LEO network pioneers Space-as-a-Service
The Kuiper Network enables organizations to buy, rather than build, applications that serve mission needs at mission speed.
-
![DSEI 2025: Helsing and Systematic join forces to revolutionise drone recce-strike missions]()
DSEI 2025: Helsing and Systematic join forces to revolutionise drone recce-strike missions
The partnership will integrate Helsing’s AI-powered systems with the Systematic SitaWare suite of C4ISR currently used by more than 50 nations, enabling faster data exchange between ISR UAVs and Helsing’s HX-2 loitering munitions.
-
![DSEI 2025: UK launches Project Octopus to deliver thousands of interceptor drones to Ukraine]()
DSEI 2025: UK launches Project Octopus to deliver thousands of interceptor drones to Ukraine
The programme will work to build and deploy the drones to Ukraine to support its fight against Russia, coming a day after Poland shot down 19 Russian drones in its airspace.
-
![DSEI 2025: NATO members evaluate Black Widow UAV as it joins NSPA catalogue]()
DSEI 2025: NATO members evaluate Black Widow UAV as it joins NSPA catalogue
The addition of Red Cat’s Black Widow to NATO’s NSPA catalogue opens the doors for allied forces to more easily procure the AI-enabled drone.
