According to Air Force Secretary Wynne, wounded troops have a much better chance of surviving thanks to the C-17. Speaking on Capitol Hill Wednesday, Wynne said that in Vietnam, injured troops had a 75 percent chance of survival, while, today in Iraq, the rate is up to 91 percent. He upped that survival rate to 93.5 percent if the troops make it to Balad AB, Iraq. Wynne said that the C-17 strategic airlifter—by operating near the front lines—is “allowing [the higher rate] to happen.”
Where Things Stand with Every Planned V-22 Fix
Feb. 11, 2026
The Air Force’s CV-22 Osprey fleet started receiving new proprotor gearboxes last month—and officials say they’re planning a comprehensive midlife upgrade for the V-22 to address concerns over its safety and reliability.

