The Australian reports
that the first C17 has rolled out of the hangar in California in RAAF markings.
The first of Australia's new fleet of four C-17 Globemaster III's was rolled out of the hangar this week in California, ahead of its initial flight later this month.
Source:
Boeing Media
Ken Graeb, SLF06-00663-002
Defence officials estimated 50 C-130 flights over a month could now be achieved by a C-17 in half the time with perhaps only 20 sorties. The big plane carries only three crew, including a loadmaster, and can lift almost four times the load of a Hercules. Australia's planes are the most advanced variant of the C-17 and feature upgrades to combat lighting, formation flying capability and flight control software. The aircraft will be identical to their US counterparts other than its RAAF markings and a black stallion signifying it will be operated by No 36 Squadron from Amberley RAAF base in Queensland.
