The commander of Air Mobility Command agreed with other military leaders about the utility and high usage of the C-17 strategic airlifter, saying the nation is using the new cargo jet at an “unprecedented rate.” Gen. Duncan McNabb told legislators last week that he has “concern” for its escalating “wear and tear,” brought on by being used “much more in a tactical role” than originally envisioned by the Air Force. At this rate, said McNabb, the Air Force will have to replace some C-17s sooner than expected.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.