Paul Lewis/WASHINGTON DC
Lockheed Martin claims that a recent US Air Force analysis of alternatives (AoA) supports its contention that theC-5A/B Galaxy Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Programme (RERP) is the lowest cost solution to addressing the US shortfall in airlift capacity.
The AoA outlines 13 options for the USAF's Air Mobility Command to boost its 49.7 million tonne mile airlift capability. "The AoA stated that the C-5 was the least expensive solution," says Greg Bricker, Lockheed Martin C-5 manager system requirements.
Options included re-engining all the USAF's 126 Galaxys, limiting the upgrade to either the 76 C-5As or 50 C-5Bs, ordering more Boeing C-17A Globemasters only, or different combinations of C-5 RERPs and new C-17s.
The final decision hinges on a wider ranging Department of Defense mobility requirements study due to conclude at the end of this month. It is expected to highlight a need for at least an additional 5 million tonne miles of airlift. Improving the C-5's operational readiness from 60% to 75% will meet at least half that shortfall, claims Bricker.
General Electric was recently selected to supply more than 500 CF6-80C2L1Fs for the RERP, but Lockheed Martin plans to contract initially for 50 C-5Bs. The first re-engined C-5 is due to fly in 2005 with delivery of an initial four modified Galaxys the following year with initial operational capability by 2008. The 58 other planned enhancements include a yet-to-be chosen auxiliary power unit.
Bricker is confident of the RERP costing less than the $45 million per unit cost objective, compared to Boeing's offer last year of 60 new C-17s at $150 million per aircraft. The DoD has acknowledged a need for more Globemasters, but has not committed to beyond the 120 ordered.
"We still hope to get 60 even if the USAF does a balancing act for different needs," says Howard Chambers, Boeing vice president airlift and tankers. Boeing has delivered 68 aircraft and needs a decision in the "next year or two" to continue production.
Source: Flight International
