Boeing's C-17 Globemaster III transport could be a major beneficiary of the House and Senate armed services committee reports, with both panels of lawmakers voting to direct the US Air Force to start talks with Boeing on buying 42 more of the aircraft, increasing to 222 its total purchase.
The USAF requested funds only to buy long-lead procurement items for seven additional aircraft in fiscal year 2006, and refuses to commit to the expanded purchase until the results of two ongoing major studies are known. The Mobility Capabilities Study is expected to set a new and higher baseline for the air force's airlift needs, while the forthcoming Quadrennial Defense Review will make the final decision on its future fleet mix.
Boeing must secure a contract for additional C-17s by January 2006 if it is to avert a production gap after 2008 (Flight International, 17-23 May). The UK – the only overseas operator of the type – last year confirmed plans to buy the four C-17s it leases from Boeing, plus at least one more to expand the Royal Air Force's strategic airlift capabilities.
STEPHEN TRIMBLE/WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
